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POST OP INSTRUCTIONS: EPISTAXIS |
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR PATIENTS WITH NOSEBLEEDS
Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are very common
and are due to a number of causes. Injury or
irritation to the inner lining of the nose
from dry air, a “cold”, nose picking, or a
blow to the nose are frequent reasons. High
blood pressure may increase the likelihood
of nosebleeds,
although the bleeding itself may elevate a
normal blood pressure, which may contribute
to the problem. Blood thinning medications,
like Coumadin, aspirin, or aspirin products
may cause easy bleeding from the nose or
other locations.
Most nosebleeds are from blood vessels along
the septum (middle) of the front part of the
nose, and are usually easily controlled.
Bleeding from the back part of the nose is
much more difficult to control and often
results in bleeding from both sides.
Treatment consists of removing the clots,
using various anesthetic and blood
vessel-constricting medications, cautery,
packings, and removal of any causative
factors.
Do not pick, rub, or blow your nose after
your nosebleed has been controlled. Also,
avoid smoking, aspirin, and any other
contributing factors found by your doctor.
Do not do any heavy lifting or bending for
several days. Cough and sneeze through your
month. Moisturizing your nose with
salt-water nasal sprays and polysporin is
helpful in decreasing the chance of a
recurrent nosebleed. If bleeding recurs, sit
up, pinch your nose firmly and continuously
for 15 minutes. DO NOT let go every few
minutes, or the bleeding will recur. Try not
to swallow blood that runs down the back of
your throat, as it may make you sick to your
stomach. Avoid the head down position, and
avoid very hot or cold foods. A piece of
cotton soaked with Afrin nasal spray (OTC)
can also be placed in the nose prior to
pinching to help with constricting the
bleeding vessel and assist in stopping the
bleeding.
If a pack has been placed, it is usually
removed in 3 days. Take any medications
prescribed exactly as directed, unless
problems develop. If any vomiting or trouble
breathing occur, you should notify your
doctor immediately. If severe symptoms
develop, go directly to the emergency room.
If you are doing well, plan to follow-up as
directed by your doctor. Please call the
office if you have any other questions. |
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