How to manage nosebleeds in a 3-year-old?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 3-year-old daughter has had three nosebleeds in about three hours. During the nosebleeds, she said her cheekbone area close to her nose hurts. What to do?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A few common causes of nasal bleeding are dry air, picking the nose, rubbing, allergies, trauma to the head or nose, and nose blowing.

In your history, I do not see any history suggestive of trauma or fall. Dry air or nasal picking is a possible cause.

When a child has nasal bleeding, make her sit upright in a chair and tilt her head slightly forward. Do not allow the child to lean back as the blood will flow to the back of the throat, leading to gagging, coughing, or vomiting. Gently pinch the soft part of the nose (just below the bony ridge) and apply pressure for at least 10 minutes.

You may also use an ice pack covered by a towel on the bridge of the nose to control bleeding. If bleeding persists for more than 20 minutes and the bleeding is heavy or the child is having dizziness or any other discomfort, then it is best to visit a pediatrician and get the baby examined.

You can follow certain tips to prevent nasal bleeding in the future. Avoid nasal blowing or picking the nose. Keep the child's room humidified and regularly apply petroleum jelly to the inside of the nostrils to keep the inside of the nose moist.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.