COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES AND CONDITIONS

NOSEBLEEDS

Nosebleeds are very common throughout childhood. They are usually caused by dryness of the nasal lining plus the normal rubbing and picking that all children do when the nose becomes blocked. Vigorous blowing and allergies can also cause nosebleeds.

HOME CARE:

• Lean forward and spit out any blood
• Gently squeeze the soft part of the nose for 5 - 10 minutes

PREVENTION:

• Avoid using aspirin or ibuprofen
• Gently apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the center wall (septum) to relieve dryness and irritation using a Q-Tip
• Increase the humidity in bedrooms at night
• Encourage children to put 2-3 drops of warm water in each nostril prior to blowing a stuffy nose
• Avoid aspirin
• Treat nasal allergies with antihistamines/decongestants

COMMON TREATMENT MISTAKES:

• Do not apply a cold washcloth to the forehead, back of the neck, or under the upper lip. It does not help stop a nosebleed.
• Avoid pressing the bony part of the nose. It does not help stop a nosebleed.