Nosebleed

The nose is a very vascular area of the body that contains many arterioles (tiny blood vessels) that can bleed easily. Nosebleeds occur more frequently in the winter when heated indoor air can dry the membranes of the nose. Also, air moving through the nose can also dry out the membranes and can form crusts. These crusts bleed when irritated by rubbing, picking, or blowing the nose.

Occasionally, nosebleeds may indicate other disorders such as bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, or hardening of the arteries.

Update Date: 1/24/2012

Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (8/2/2011).

,

Notice: The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2012, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.