Seeing your child get a nosebleed can be scary, especially when it seems to be happening often. Nosebleeds tend to happen frequently during the winter months. The good news is that winter nosebleeds are usually harmless and quite common in children. Cold temperatures, dry indoor heating, and seasonal viruses all play a role. Understanding the causes and knowing what to do during a nosebleed can help you keep your child safe and calm.
Nosebleeds can be caused by a variety of conditions. For peace of mind and prevention tips, visit AFC Urgent Care Bedford. Our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide compassionate care for the whole family. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance.
What Causes Nosebleeds in Children?
Most winter nosebleeds happen because the air becomes much drier during the cold season. Dry air can cause the delicate blood vessels inside the nose to crack or become irritated, making them more likely to bleed.
Other common causes include:
- Frequent nose blowing due to colds or allergies
- Dry indoor heating
- Minor injuries from nose picking
- Upper respiratory infections
- Sudden temperature changes
Less commonly, nosebleeds may be related to underlying medical conditions or nutrient deficiencies, but these are rare.
What Should I Do If My Child Gets a Nosebleed?
If your child’s nose starts bleeding, don’t panic, as most nosebleeds stop on their own within a few minutes. Here’s what to do:
1. Keep your child seated and calm. Panicking can increase blood pressure and make the bleeding last longer.
2. Have your child lean slightly forward. Leaning back can cause blood to run down the throat, which may lead to coughing or vomiting.
3. Pinch the soft part of the nose. Use your thumb and index finger to gently squeeze the soft lower part of the nose for 10 minutes without checking.
4. Apply a cold compress. Placing a cool cloth on the bridge of the nose can help constrict blood vessels.
5. Avoid inserting tissues, cotton, or any objects into the nose. This can irritate the nasal lining and make future nosebleeds more likely.
Can Nosebleeds Be Prevented?
Yes, many winter nosebleeds can be reduced or prevented with simple home measures:
- Use a humidifier in your child’s room to add moisture to the air.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or saline gel inside the nostrils to keep them moist.
- Encourage gentle nose blowing to avoid irritation.
- Keep fingernails trimmed to prevent nose picking injuries.
- Stay hydrated to help keep the nasal passages from drying out.
These small habits can make a big difference throughout the cold season.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Bedford for Pediatric Urgent Care
Most nosebleeds aren’t serious, but you should seek medical care if your child’s nosebleeds seem to happen very frequently, last longer than 20 minutes, occur after a hard fall or injury, or are accompanied by dizziness or weakness. These conditions suggest an injury to the nasal passages and require evaluation from a medical professional.
AFC Urgent Care Bedford is available everyday to give you peace of mind and help rule out underlying conditions causing frequent nosebleeds. Simply walk into the clinic for rapid same-day care. We have affordable rates, and accept most medical insurance plans. Walk in today, or give us a call to learn more at (781) 430-8161.
