In rare instances, the swallowed blood can irritate the stomach lining, and cause a vomiting of blood.

• Pinch the nose with thumb and forefinger for a full 5-10 minutes. This almost always results in a clot forming, and the bleeding will stop.
  
  
• Ice packs can also be applied to the side of the nose from outside. If any foreign body is obvious, it can be removed.
  
  
• It also helps to put some decongestant nasal drops. These drops contract and shrink the blood vessels temporarily, leading to a reduction in the bleeding.

If bleeding does not stop, consult an ENT surgeon.

Further treatment involves packing the nasal cavities, and cauterisation with heat, if necessary.

In very rare cases, if the amount of bleeding has been significant, a blood transfusion may be required.

Few Dos and Don'ts:

1. Instruct your child to avoid blowing the nose forcibly.

2. Treat your child's constipation, as straining while passing stool increases the chances of nasal bleeding.

3. Prevent your child from lifting heavy things.

4. Quit smoking, since passive smoking irritates your child's nose, making him or her more prone to bleeding.

5. Keep nose linings moist with petroleum jelly.

6. Instruct your child not to pick the nose.

7. Use a humidifier at night.

So, the next time you have a nosebleed in the family, don't panic. Try and resolve this matter at home.

All children with recurrent nosebleeds however, need to be evaluated by a doctor, and many a times, tests may be needed to rule out underlying serious pathology or clotting disorders.

Author: Dr. P. V. Vaidyanathan

(The author is a Mumbai-based Paediatrician)

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