Frequent nosebleeds: When to worry about underlying health issues. They are often dismissed as a minor nuisance, but according to Dr Sumit Mrig, director and unit head of ENT at Max Smart Hospital in Saket, they can signal serious health problems. While seasonal nosebleeds are usually harmless, frequent nosebleeds deserve medical attention to rule out underlying conditions.
In children, frequent nosebleeds are often triggered by nose picking. However, Dr Mrig notes they may also indicate inherited disorders like thalassemia or sickle cell disease. Congenital bleeding issues require investigation, though simple measures like avoiding nose picking and lubricating the nostrils can help. In severe cases, cauterization may be necessary.
For adults and the elderly, frequent nosebleeds, known as epistaxis, can result from uncontrolled hypertension. Dr Mrig explains that fluctuating blood pressure causes capillary rupture in the nose, with posterior bleeds being harder to control. Such cases sometimes require admission and treatment in an operating theater.
The doctor warns that frequent nosebleeds can also point to hematological conditions or liver disorders like alcoholic liver cirrhosis, where coagulation factor production is impaired. Patients with end-stage renal or liver failure often experience epistaxis due to defects in factors like Factor V. Additionally, those on blood thinners like warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin for cardiac procedures may suffer nosebleeds from minor blood pressure rises.
To conclude, while occasional nosebleeds are typically harmless, frequent nosebleeds warrant medical evaluation to rule out underlying causes such as hypertension or coagulation problems. Always consult an ENT specialist for proper diagnosis and care.