My child just had a nosebleed and it's his second this week. Should I be concerned?
Although nosebleeds can be messy and a bit scary, reassure your child that nosebleeds are common among children and usually harmless.
Nosebleeds can be caused by picking or sticking something in the nose, colds or allergies, and dry air. Avoid putting anything in the nose even after a nosebleed; it may cause bleeding to reoccur. Do not blow the nose forcefully for the clot may dislodge causing the nose to bleed again. Your child should not participate in any intense physical activity such as hockey for at least 24 hours. The running of a humidifier in your child's room at night can increase the moisture in the air which will help the nose to heal.
Your child may need to see the doctor if the nosebleeds are a result of an injury or medication.
If your child's nose is bleeding, the child will need to sit up and lean forward. By leaning forward, your child is prevented from swallowing any blood. Sometimes when blood is swallowed, the stomach can become irritated and cause the child to vomit.
Your child can now pinch the sides of their nose just below the bridge or bony part of the nose. Explain to your child they need to breathe through their mouth. Continue to keep the nostrils pinched for 10 to15 minutes. It is important not to check to see if the nose has stopped bleeding because it takes several minutes for the clot to form and stop the bleeding. Repeat these steps again if the bleeding does not stop during the 10 to15 minute time frame. If the nose continues to bleed, your child will need to be seen by a doctor.
For more information about caring for a nosebleed and when to seek medical attention, contact Capital Health Link where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 408- LINK (5465) or outside the local calling area toll free 1-866-408-LINK.
Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)
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