Nosebleeds (Epistaxis), Pediatric

Epistaxis: bleeding from the nostril, nasal cavity, or nasopharynx

Classified as either anterior or posterior

• Anterior epistaxis is from the anterior nasal septum, usually is venous fr...

Frequency and duration

Laterality of the nosebleed

Local trauma (nose picking, foreign body)

Upper respiratory tract infection

Allergies

Obstruction

Discharge

Medications or drug use

• NSAIDs, ...

Acute

• Elevate the head forward.

• Direct pressure, applied by gently squeezing the nostrils for 5 to 15 minutes, is usually sufficient to stop most nosebleeds.

• Vasoconstricting ag...

Nosebleeds are easily controlled and self-limited in most cases.

Referral to an otorhinolaryngologist is indicated for patients with specific local abnormalities, ...

Béquignon E, Teissier N, Gauthier A, et al. Emergency department care of childhood epistaxis. Emerg Med J.  2017;34(8):543–548. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

Davies K, Batra K...

12441001 Epistaxis (disorder)

232354002 Anterior epistaxis

232355001 Posterior epistaxis

232356000 Traumatic epistaxis

Q: How should I explain to a child to stop a nosebleed that occurs at home?

A: The child or parent should apply pressure by compressing the lateral cartilaginous surface of the external nose togeth...