Why Am I Having Frequent Nosebleeds?
While nosebleeds are alarming and inconvenient, their origin is generally minor. Nosebleeds can sometimes be caused by underlying health problems, but can be prevented using a few preventative steps.
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Environmental
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Dry air caused by weather changes, heat, or a dusty environment can cause the nasal passages to crack and bleed.
Injury
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Nosebleeds can occur when the sensitive tissues within the nose are damaged, or when polyps appear in the nasal passageway. Trauma to the nose can also extend the stretch of the skin and cartilage in the nose, causing a nosebleed.
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Medication
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Several prescription and over the counter medications can cause thinning of the blood and make nosebleeds more common. Medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen and anti-arthritis medications can make nosebleeds more common.
Health Problems
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Frequent nosebleeds can be caused by hypertension, diabetes, weight loss, allergies or brain tumor. Age plays a factor as well, the skin in the body thins with age, including the skin within the nasal passages.
Prevention
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Occasional nosebleeds can be prevented by adding humidity to the living space with a humidifier. Nasal passages can be kept moist by swabbing the interior of the nose with a thin layer of petroleum jelly or using saline nasal spray. For frequent nosebleeds, switching pain relievers or medications may be necessary and underlying health concerns should be addressed by a doctor.
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