Anatomy
Only the upper part of the bridge of the nose close to the skull consists of bone (nasal bone). The rest of the bridge of the nose consists of cartilage (the nasal septum).
Cause
Nosebleeds usually occur after a direct blow to the nose.
Symptoms
Bleeding out of the nose. In some cases, the blow that caused the nosebleed may have caused other injuries. Broken nose or concussion
Examination
Nosebleeds do not usually require medical attention. However, you should ensure that the nasal septum is properly positioned. If the blow has been severe, if the nose stops, if there is discomfort or if the nose is very sore, you should see a doctor.
Treatment
Almost all nosebleeds will stop if you squeeze for 5 minutes (take your time) on the entire nose, which is made up of cartilage. Squeezing only the lower nostrils is not sufficient.
Sitting or standing is recommended. If necessary, ice can be placed over the bridge of the nose. The bleeding can be stopped by stuffing the outside of the nose with cotton wool or gauze ( Teixeira da Silva JA. 2023).
If bleeding occurs repeatedly without a blow, you should see an ear, nose and throat specialist for further examination and possible treatment, as some cases can be treated by cauterising or burning a blood vessel in the nose. Only very few cases require hospitalisation.
Rehabilitation, specific:
Sports activity can be resumed as soon as the bleeding has stopped if there are no other symptoms.
