Allergies And Nosebleeds
So, you have seasonal allergies, which are a pain in the neck to begin with. But now you're getting frequent nosebleeds too? This may have you saying, "What the heck body? Get it together!" The good news is that nosebleeds are rarely a severe medical issue. But why do nosebleeds accompany our allergies and what can we do about it? Read on to find out more.
What Causes Nosebleeds In Conjunction With Allergies?
Your nose contains multiple tiny blood vessels and your nasal passages are lined with what's called a nasal membrane. These blood vessels and nasal membranes can be easily damaged which is what will cause a nosebleed. When you have allergies, the allergens tend to dry out your nasal membrane, which can cause irritation and ultimately nosebleeds.
Nosebleeds can also be caused by the following:
- Sinusitis
- The common cold
- Trauma or impact damage to your nose
- Chemical irritants
- Overuse of medication such as nasal sprays
- An object lodged in your nasal passages
How Do I Stop A Nosebleed?
The best way to stop a nosebleed is to simply pinch the softest portion of your nose with your finger and thumb. Breathe through your mouth and hold your nose for about ten minutes. Keep holding for the full ten minutes, even if the nosebleed has stopped sooner. Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn't lie down, blow your nose, or tilt your head back.
When Should I Go To The Doctor If I Have A Nosebleed?
If your nose continues to bleed for longer than 20 minutes, if you feel lightheaded, or if the nosebleed is the result of head trauma, you should seek immediate medical care.
How Do I Address Nosebleeds During Allergy Season Before They Happen?
If you or your child suffer from frequent nosebleeds, it's important to understand why. If it's happening during allergy season, first visit an allergy specialist for allergy testing to determine what you or your child may be allergic to so that you can address that first. Since nosebleeds frequently occur when your nasal membrane dries out, which happens when the air is dry, consider using a humidifier in your home or workspace to keep the air more humid.
You should also avoid situations that can damage your nose or nasal passages such as picking your nose. Additionally, limit the use of aspirin, antihistamines, and decongestants, as these can thin your blood or dry out your nose, making nosebleeds more frequent. If your nasal passages feel dried out, consider the use of saline spray or nasal gel to keep our nasal passages moist.
