Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders
Question #6646
35 days ago
51

epistaxis definition - #6646

Anonymously

I’ve been having frequent nosebleeds, and I came across the term epistaxis. What is the exact epistaxis definition, and does it just mean a nosebleed, or is it a more serious condition? I know nosebleeds happen when the small blood vessels inside the nose break, but what causes epistaxis to happen frequently? Could it be due to dry air, allergies, high blood pressure, or even a blood disorder? Another thing I wonder about is whether posterior nosebleeds are more dangerous than anterior ones. How can someone tell which type they have? For those who have dealt with chronic epistaxis, what treatments helped the most? Do home remedies like pinching the nose and tilting forward work, or do some people need medical intervention like cauterization?

Epistaxis definition
Nosebleeds
Nasal bleeding
Ent disorders
Blood vessel rupture
Sinus health
Cauterization
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Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
34 days ago
Epistaxis is simply the medical term for a nosebleed. While it can happen from time to time due to minor irritants like dry air or allergies, frequent nosebleeds may suggest an underlying cause, such as a blood vessel issue, high blood pressure, or even a blood disorder. Dry air, particularly in winter, is a common culprit, as it dries out the mucous membranes in the nose and causes blood vessels to break more easily. Nosebleeds are categorized into anterior (front) and posterior (back) types. Anterior nosebleeds are more common and typically less severe. However, posterior nosebleeds, which occur deeper in the nasal passages, can be more serious and may cause more significant blood loss. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after applying pressure and tilting forward, it may be a sign of a posterior nosebleed. For chronic epistaxis, treatments can include humidifiers, saline nasal sprays, or even cauterization if necessary. If you’re concerned about frequent nosebleeds, I recommend seeing your doctor for further evaluation. They may check for underlying conditions and suggest treatments that work best for you.
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