Winter can be a magical season, with its joyful festivities and cozy evenings by the fire. However, for some, it also brings along a less enchanting phenomenon – nosebleeds. If you’ve ever wondered why your nose seems to be more prone to bleeding during the cooler months, or if you’re seeking tips to prevent and manage these pesky occurrences, this article is for you.
Why do nosebleeds occur more in winter?
“Dry, cold air in winter can cause our bodies to react in different ways,” says White-Wilson Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) Jennifer Bendokas. “Nosebleeds are a common reaction brought about by the lower humidity levels that this time of year brings.”
Dryness caused by lack of humidity that occurs seasonally is compounded by the dry air produced by heaters, this can cause the delicate blood vessels in the nose to become more susceptible to breaking, leading to nosebleeds. However, PA Bendokas explains that there are several steps you can take to reduce their occurrences:
Tips for Prevention
- Humidify Your Home – Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air. This will help keep the nasal passages from drying out.
- Nasal Saline Spray – Regular use of a nasal saline spray can help keep the nasal passages moist and less prone to bleeding.
- Stay Hydrated – Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain your body’s proper level of hydration.
- Apply Nasal Ointment – Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or saline nasal ointment to the inside of your nostrils can help protect the nasal membranes.
- Avoid Excessive Nose Picking – Scratching or picking your nose can lead to nosebleeds. Be gentle and avoid excessive contact with your nasal passages.
Dealing with a Nosebleed
“If you do get a nosebleed, it’s important not to panic,” says PA Bendokas. “They are usually nothing to worry about, and taking simple steps will help to quickly stop the bleed.”
If you or your child begins to experience a nosebleed, here’s what to do:
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position, and use a tissue or damp washcloth to soak up the blood.
- Do not lean your head back. Instead, lean slightly forward to prevent blood from running down the throat.
- Gently pinch your nostrils together and maintain that pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. Once the bleeding has stopped, avoid rubbing or blowing your nose.
- If the nosebleed doesn’t stop after 20 to 30 minutes or is particularly severe, seek medical attention.
During the scorching summer months, your body will utilize more oxygen than normal to regulate body temperature, explains APRN Cusson. Thus, you tend to breathe in large amounts of pollen, water vapor and pollution, all of which are in excess quantities anyway due to the hot temperatures causing plants to bloom, humidity levels to be higher and pollution to become more easily trapped in the ambient air.
Jennifer Bendokas, PA-C is a certified physician assistant with White-Wilson Medical Center’s Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat) team. She is passionate about helping patients address sinus and allergy issues. Learn more about PA Bendokas and her approach to patient care here.
