Dr. Murat Arslanhan, Otorhinolaryngologist at Medline Adana Hospital, warned that 90% of nosebleeds are mild and usually resolve on their own, while approximately 10% may be a sign of serious problems such as high blood pressure, and offered advice and recommendations.

Usually easy to control

Nosebleeds are divided into two types: “anterior nosebleeds” and “posterior nosebleeds”. Anterior nose bleeds are defined as bleeding caused by local factors such as trauma, insertion of an object or finger, or dry mucosa, due to the fact that the blood vessels supplying the nose are located approximately 1 centimetre from the nostril. These types of bleeds, which are generally milder and easier to control, are the most common type of nose bleed in the general population.

The underlying cause may be important

On the other hand, posterior nosebleeds occur when blood vessels in the deeper regions of the nose rupture and are usually associated with underlying health problems such as advanced age, high blood pressure or intracranial tumours. Posterior nosebleeds can be more severe and may require medical intervention.

Air conditioning use can have a negative effect

Air conditioners, which are preferred for cooling off in hot weather, dry out the ambient air and reduce the humidity of the air we breathe. This can cause the nasal mucosa to dry out and the superficial blood vessels to become sensitive and rupture. As a result, nosebleeds may occur. To avoid such problems, air conditioners should be used consciously; the environment should be ventilated from time to time, and the moisture balance should be maintained. Leaving a window slightly open in rooms where air conditioners are used can be beneficial in terms of air circulation and moisture.

The inside of the nose should be kept moist

To prevent nosebleeds, moisturising nasal drops can be used when dryness is felt inside the nose. Drinking enough water throughout the day also helps keep the mucous membranes moist. Avoid excessive and forceful blowing of the nose during nasal cleansing. Additionally, it is advisable for hypertensive patients to avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day (10:00–16:00) to reduce the risk of nosebleeds.

What should be done in case of a nosebleed?

Although nosebleeds may seem alarming, in most cases there is no cause for concern. Treatment is usually simple. Here is what you should do in such a situation:

• Stay calm. Panicking can cause the bleeding to increase.
• Tilt your head forward. This prevents blood from flowing into your throat and causing nausea.
• Pinch your nostrils with your fingers. Gently press both nostrils together and hold for 5-10 minutes.
• Breathe through your mouth. Continue breathing through your mouth until the bleeding stops.
• Apply cold compresses. Placing cold compresses on the nose or the back of the neck can help stop the bleeding by constricting the blood vessels.
• Do not clean your nose after the bleeding has stopped. Removing the blood clot may cause new bleeding.
• If the bleeding continues for more than 15-20 minutes or if blood comes out of your mouth, seek medical attention immediately. Persistent or recurring nosebleeds may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.