Cause: A nosebleed usually occurs following a direct blow to the nose. Symptoms: Bleeding from the nose. In some cases the blow starting the nosebleed can cause other injuries, (fracture of the nasal bone or concussion of the brain). Examination: A nosebleed does not usually require medical attention. You should, however, ensure that the nasal septum is correctly positioned. If the blow has been particularly hard and there is general malaise or pronounced tenderness, the patient should be attended to by a doctor. Treatment: Almost all nosebleeds will stop if the whole of the nose that is comprised of cartilage is squeezed for 5 minutes (time should be taken). It is in other words not sufficient merely to press the lower part of the nostrils together. It is recommended to stand or sit under the treatment. Ice can be placed over the bridge of the nose. The bleeding can be made to stop by packing the nose with cotton wool or gauze. An ear, nose and throat specialist should be consulted if the bleeding occurs repeatedly without a blow, as some cases can be treated by cauterising or burning a blood vessel in the nose. Only very rare cases require hospitalization (article). Rehabilitation of children and adolescents: The sports activity can be resumed as soon as the bleeding has ceased if no other symptoms are in evidence. |