Nosebleeds occurs commonly in children, especially in those between the ages of 2 and 10 years old.

In most cases, nosebleeds are secondary to local trauma and can be cared for primary care physicians.

In rare instances, however, a nosebleed may be difficult to control or may be a manifestation of a serious systemic illness.

Referral to an otorynolaryngologist or hematologist/oncologist is usually not required except in these situations, and hospitalization is generally unnecessary.

Parents and children, who are often frightened by nosebleeds, frequently overestimate the amount of blood lost. Understanding and reassurance are important in dealing with anxiety.

Thirty percent of children have one nosebleed by the time they are 5 years of age. In children between 6 and 10 years old, frequency increases to 56%.

Nosebleeds are rare in infancy and infrequent after puberty. They occur much more frequently in the late fall and winter months, when URIs are common, environmental humidity is relatively low, and the use of heating systems results in dryness.

Nosebleeds are also more common in children who live in dry climates, especially if they have an upper respiratory infection or allergic sinusitis.

Possible Causes to Rule Out