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Causes of Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds happen often because of the rich blood supply of the nose. Common causes include:

• Spontaneous Nosebleed. Most nosebleeds start with no known cause.
• Rubbing or Picking the nose is the most common known causes. It's hard to not touch or rub the nose.
• Blowing the nose too hard can cause a nosebleed.
• Sinus Infections. The main symptoms are lots of dry snot and a blocked nose. This leads to extra nose blowing and picking. The sinus infection is more often viral than bacterial.
• Nose Allergies. The main symptom is a very itchy nose. This leads to extra rubbing and blowing.
• Dry Air. Dryness of the nasal lining makes it more likely to bleed. In the winter, forced air heating can dry out the nose.
• Allergy Medicines help the nasal symptoms, but also dry out the nose. It may cause a nosebleed.
• Ibuprofen and Aspirin. These medicines increase the bleeding tendency.
• Cocaine Use. Frequent use of cocaine can lead to nosebleeds. Long-term use can cause a hole in the septum of the nose.
• Bleeding Disorder (serious). This means the blood platelets or clotting factors are missing or not working right. A bleeding disorder should be suspected if the nosebleed can't be stopped. Lots of bleeding from the gums or with minor cuts is also a clue. Bleeding disorders are a rare cause of frequent nosebleeds. Taking blood thinners has the same effect.