Nose bleeding, medically known as epistaxis, is one of the most common problems. However, the sight of blood dripping from nostrils can be frightening and discomforting and if not controlled, can be detrimental. The inner part of the nose consists of many dominant tiny blood vessels. When these vessels experience disruptions, blood starts to flow from the nostrils.
Since the nose is located on an unguarded position, chances of injury to the nose are more likely to happen besides various other underlying conditions.
Also read: Nosebleeds/Epistaxis: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
What Causes Nosebleed?
- Upper respiratory infections, inflammation of the mucous membranes, repeated sneezing and nose blowing can result in nose to bleed
- A polyp or some kind of tumour in the nose or sinuses
- Dry air, low-humidity climates or indoor environments that have been artificially heated cause nasal membranes to dry out or crack
- Some kind of allergic reaction, excessive usage of nasal sprays or chemical irritants can cause epistaxis.
- High blood pressure can cause profuse nose bleeding
- Accidental injury to the nose can cause a spontaneous gush of blood from the nose
Nose Bleeding In Ayurveda
As per ayurvedic science, an individual is born with five basic elements of nature namely earth, air, water, fire and space.
Disturbance in any of these elements causes 3 doshas - vata, kapha and pitta. An imbalance of the pitta dosha is an imbalance in the metabolism composed of fire and water and is associated with nosebleed.
Powerful Home Remedies To Treat Epistaxis
Are you experiencing nose bleeding frequently? Try these effective ayurvedic home remedies that can come in handy to pacify your pitta dosha and provide instant relief in minor or even profuse nose bleeds.
Rosewood Tree Extracts
Known for its nerve-calming properties, rosewood provides a therapeutic and long-term relief from nose bleeding. Boil rosewood leaves, cool them and put a few drops of juice extracted from rosewood leaves for recurring nosebleeds.
Peepal Juice
Juice extracted from peepal leaves also helps in providing immediate relief from nose bleeding as peepal helps in the quick healing and decreases nasal inflammation.
Nettle Leaves
A hemostatic substance, nettle leaves work well to cure sudden nose bleeds besides keeping allergy related nosebleeds at bay. Dip some cotton balls in nettle leaves solution and keep it on the nose until the bleeding stops.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Acid in the apple cider vinegar helps in constricting the blood vessels and stops the bleeding instantly, thus preventing further blood loss. Place apple cider-soaked cotton ball in the affected nostril for about eight to ten minutes.
Water
Lack of liquid intake through the day can lead to dryness in the mucous membranes causing nosebleed. Make sure you drink ample water during summers and in dry climatic environments.
Ice Cubes
One of the most effective remedies, ice cubes numb the pain and provide instant relief. Apply ice wrapped in a towel on the nostrils to reduce swelling of the blood vessels.
Baking Soda
Baking soda works wonderfully for nose bleeding. Mix a spoon of baking soda in water and transfer the solution into a sprayer. Keep spraying it into the nostrils until bleeding stops.
Vaseline
Vaseline is one of the best remedies to stop nosebleeds. If you are having recurrent nosebleeds, apply a light coating of Vaseline inside your nose to prevent a sudden bout of nosebleeds. Do not blow your nose after you have put the Vaseline. Let it sit inside the nose for at least ten hours after the bleeding has stopped.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is also an effective stimulant that regulates the pressure of the blood flow and helps to control nose bleeding. Take a small teaspoon of cayenne powder and mix in lukewarm water. Drink it as soon as the bleeding episode starts to control it.
Vitamin C And K Rich Foods
If Vitamin C And Vitamin K-rich foods are added to the daily diet when the nose bleeding has become a recurrent episode, such as apples, garlic, citrus fruit, watermelon, and onions. These have essential flavonoids that will help strengthen the capillaries. This will make them less prone to bleeding in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Stop A Nosebleed Fast?
To stop a nosebleed quickly, follow these steps:
Sit upright and slightly lean forward to prevent blood from flowing into the throat.
Pinch the soft part of the nose (just below the bridge) firmly with your thumb and index finger.
Breathe through your mouth and continue pinching for about 10-15 minutes without checking if the bleeding has stopped.
Apply a cold compress or ice pack on the nose bridge and forehead to constrict blood vessels.
Avoid lying down or tilting your head back as it can cause blood to drain into the throat.
If the nosebleed doesn't stop after 20 minutes or happens frequently, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for medical help.
What Home Remedy Can I Use To Stop Nose Bleeding?
A few effective home remedies for stopping a nosebleed include:
Saline Spray: Moisturizes dry nasal passages, which may help prevent nosebleeds.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and gently place it inside the nostril. This helps constrict blood vessels and stop bleeding.
Cayenne Pepper: Drinking a small amount of cayenne pepper dissolved in warm water may help control the blood flow and clotting process.
Petroleum Jelly: Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils can prevent dryness that leads to nosebleeds, particularly in dry environments.
What Foods Are Good For Nose Bleeds?
Certain foods can help strengthen blood vessels and improve clotting, potentially reducing the likelihood of nosebleeds:
Vitamin C-rich foods (oranges, kiwis, strawberries) help in collagen production, which strengthens blood vessels.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in Vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting.
Iron-rich foods like lentils, beans, and red meat can help replenish blood if nosebleeds are frequent.
Hydrating foods such as cucumbers, watermelons, and soups help keep the nasal passages moist and reduce dryness.
( This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK435997/
https://albertscience.com/journals/article_detail/70
CAUSES OF NOSE BLEEDING IN SUMMER: HOME REMEDIES, PREVENTION & PRECLUSION
Author Names : Dr. BANKIM CHANDRA NANDY