Why Frequent Nosebleeds? | ENT Gangnam Seoul

Most nosebleeds come from the front of the nose

About 90% of nosebleeds are anterior, meaning they start from a network of small vessels on the front part of the septum, known as Little's area or Kiesselbach's plexus. These vessels sit just under a thin lining that easily dries, crusts, and cracks. Posterior nosebleeds, from deeper in the nose, are less common but tend to be heavier and more common in older adults.

Common causes of recurring nosebleeds

Dry air: Seoul winters and floor-heated apartments dry the lining.
Nose picking or rubbing, especially in children.
Colds and allergies, causing frequent nose blowing and inflammation.
Nasal sprays aimed at the septum rather than the outer wall.
Deviated septum, where airflow dries a prominent spur.
Blood thinners such as aspirin, clopidogrel, or anticoagulants.
High blood pressure, which can make bleeding harder to stop.
Less commonly: bleeding disorders, hereditary vascular conditions, or tumors.

First aid that works

Sit up and lean forward, not back, so blood does not run down your throat.
Pinch the soft part of the nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes without letting go to check.
Breathe through your mouth and spit out any blood.
A cold compress on the bridge of the nose may help.
Avoid blowing your nose, lifting heavy objects, or hot drinks for several hours afterward.

When a nosebleed is an emergency

Go to an emergency department if bleeding does not stop after 20 to 30 minutes of firm pressure, if it is very heavy, if you feel faint or short of breath, if it follows a head injury, or if you take blood thinners and cannot control it.

What we do at Gangnam Yonsei ENT

For recurring bleeds, the goal is to find the exact source. Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, a board-certified ENT and former Yonsei clinical assistant professor, examines the nose with a nasal endoscopy to locate fragile vessels and check for a septal spur, crusting, or an unusual growth.

Nosebleed treatment commonly includes cauterization of the bleeding vessel after numbing the lining, followed by an ointment to keep the area moist while it heals. If a deviated septum repeatedly causes drying and bleeding, correcting it may be discussed. Allergy or rhinitis contributing to irritation is treated as well.

Prevention tips

Use a humidifier in the bedroom during dry months.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a prescribed ointment inside the front of the nose.
Use saline sprays to keep the lining moist.
Aim steroid sprays slightly outward, toward the ear on the same side.
Keep children's nails short.

When to see an ENT

Book a visit if nosebleeds happen more than once or twice a month, are always from the same side, come with nasal blockage, or occur in a child frequently. One-sided bleeding with blockage should always be checked to rule out a growth.

Consultations are in English near Gangnam-gu Office Station. See our English-speaking ENT page, or read how fine dust affects your nose.

Should I tilt my head back during a nosebleed?

No. Tilting your head back lets blood run down the throat, which can cause coughing, nausea, or vomiting. Lean forward slightly and pinch the soft part of your nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes instead.

Does nasal cauterization hurt?

The lining is numbed with a local anesthetic before cauterization, so most people feel only mild stinging or pressure. The area may feel slightly sore or crusty for a week or two while it heals.

Are frequent nosebleeds a sign of cancer?

Usually not. Most recurring nosebleeds are caused by dry, fragile vessels at the front of the nose. However, bleeding from one side together with blockage, facial pain, or numbness should be examined to exclude a tumor.

Gangnam Yonsei ENT Clinic

Why Do I Get Frequent Nosebleeds? An ENT in Gangnam, Seoul Explains