Nosebleed, or epistaxis, is a common problem, occurring in up to 60% of the general population and often occurs as a result of a respiratory illness or dry conditions. Nasal drying is common during the hot summer months because of the extreme temperature and dry air due to use of air conditioners.

Some common reasons for nosebleeds include:

• Allergies
• Blowing the nose too hard or trying to remove something from inside the nose
• A result of popping the ear
• Nasal exposure to chemicals
• Frequent sneezing or suffering from an upper respiratory tract infection
• Use of nasal sprays or a blood-thinning drug
• Inhaling extremely dry or cold air
• Recent surgery on nose or elsewhere on the face
• Breaking the nose or a similar injury
• Uncontrolled blood pressure.

Bleeding can be controlled by applying direct pressure, i.e., by compressing the nostrils, rasping the alae distally so that all mucosal surfaces are opposed. Apply direct pressure continuously for at least five minutes, and for up to 20 minutes. The patient should be encouraged not to check for active bleeding.

Other maneuvers that can help include bending forward at the waist while sitting up in order to avoid swallowing blood, placing cotton wool or gauze into the bleeding nostril, expectorating out blood that collects in the pharynx, and applying a cold compress to the bridge of the nose.

These maneuvers must be taught to high-risk patients. Many ENT specialists advocate initial treatment with oxymetazoline in a bid to accelerate hemostasis.