Nosebleeds

[ellafidler16]

Does nosebleeds have anything to do with Lack of Iron.

[Foggyme Administrator]

Hi Ellafidler16. Yes, nosebleeds can occur due to iron deficiency anaemia.

But there can be many other causes of nose bleeds too.

There are two sort of nose bleeds so I'm making the distinction because they may have to be treated differently.

The first type: anterior nosebleeds. Happen at the front of the nose - bleeding comes form a network of capillaries (small blood vessels) near the surface of the skin.

Potential causes: iron deficency anaemia, vitamin deficiencies (folate, vitamins B12, K, C,) calcium deficiency, blowing nose too hard, minor injury, allergies, having a cold, deviated septum, blood clotting conditions, chemical irritants (cigarette smoke, inhalation of drugs), over use of nasal decongestants, excessive heat or cold....and the list could go on....

These types of nosebleed are usually characterised by a slow to medium trickling to steady flow of blood (not gushing or heavy) and are usually easily controlled at home.

The second type: posterior nosebleeds. Originate at the back of the nose and involve arteries (much bigger blood vessels).

Potential causes: certain medications (warfarin, heparin, ibuprofen, aspirin etc.), blood clotting abnormalities, facial/nose trauma, hardened arteries, calcium deficiency, chemical,irritants, hypertension...and many more...

These types of nosebleed are characterised by sudden heavy bleeding, (sometimes with a pulsing flow) - gushing and heavy to very heavy. These types of nosebleed can sometimes be quite difficult to stop (especially if caused by high blood pressure). A nosebleed like this that continues for over ten minutes should be treated as a medical all emergency - usually,in an A & E department (or other establishment where medical attention is immediately available).

So...the reason for nosebleeds can be quite simple...or very complex 😀.

If your continue then it is best to discuss these with your GP, who can arrange further investigations, if necessary. And if you do have a nose bleed that's difficult to stop, or makes you feel dizzy, nauseous or faint, or cold and clammy....best to pop along to A & E where they will be able to help control the bleeding...and instigate further investigations, if necessary.

👍

[ellafidler16]

Okay thank you