Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) in Gurnee & Libertyville
Nosebleeds are common and usually not dangerous, but they can be scary and inconvenient—especially if they happen often. Most bleeds start in the front of the nose and are easy to stop at home. Others begin deeper in the nose and may need medical care. At Lake County ENT, we identify why you’re bleeding and create a plan to stop it and prevent it from coming back.
What it is
Bleeding from tiny, fragile vessels in the nose—often from dryness, irritation, or minor trauma (picking/blowing).
Who it affects
All ages. More common in kids (2–10) and adults (50–80), dry climates, winter months, and with blood thinners.
How we help
In-office exam, gentle endoscopy if needed, targeted cautery or packing, and prevention to reduce recurrences.
Frequent or hard-to-stop nosebleeds? We’ll find the cause and stop the cycle.
Types and Common Symptoms
Anterior Nosebleeds (Most Common)
- Start near the front septum (the wall between nostrils)
- Blood usually drips or flows out one nostril while upright
- Often triggered by dryness, picking, allergies, or minor injury
Posterior Nosebleeds (Less Common)
- Begin deeper in the nose and may bleed down the throat
- More likely in older adults or with high blood pressure/blood thinners
- Often require medical treatment (packing, cautery)
When to call us: Recurrent nosebleeds, heavy bleeding, bleeding after facial injury, or if you’re on blood thinners.
Call 911 for trouble breathing, fainting, severe uncontrolled bleeding > 20 minutes, or significant head trauma.
How We Diagnose the Cause
Our Evaluation
- History (triggers, medications, medical conditions)
- Nasal and septal exam to locate fragile vessels or crusting
- Blood pressure check; review of anticoagulants/aspirin/NSAIDs
Tests We May Use
- Nasal endoscopy: Gentle in-office camera to find the source
- Labs: If a bleeding or clotting disorder is suspected
- Imaging: Only for trauma or complex/recurrent cases
Not sure if your bleeds are anterior or posterior? We’ll sort it out and treat it.
Treatment Options
First Aid at Home
- Sit up, lean slightly forward (don’t lean back)
- Blow out gentle clots; spray a decongestant (oxymetazoline) if available
- Pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for 10 minutes
- Repeat once if needed; avoid packing with dry cotton or tissue
- After it stops, no heavy lifting, nose blowing, or picking for 24–48 hours
In-Office & Medical Care
- Cautery: Seals fragile vessels with silver nitrate or electrical cautery
- Nasal packing: Absorbable or inflatable packing for persistent bleeds
- Moisturizing regimen: Saline spray/gel and ointment to prevent crusting
- Medication review: Coordinate with your physician on blood thinners if appropriate
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Listen & evaluate: Triggers, frequency, medications
- Exam & locate: Find exact bleeding site; endoscopy if needed
- Stop & prevent: Cautery/packing and a clear prevention plan
Prevention Tips
- Daily saline spray and a thin layer of petroleum-based ointment inside nostrils
- Humidifier in sleeping area during dry months
- Keep nails short; avoid picking and aggressive blowing
- Manage allergies and treat nasal inflammation promptly
We’ll help you stop active bleeding and prevent the next one—with a plan that fits your life.
FAQs
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Ready to stop recurrent nosebleeds? Get a clear diagnosis and a prevention plan that works.