A nosebleed is also known as epistaxis. It is the condition when blood comes out of the nose when the tiny blood vessels inside the nose get damaged. There are two types of nosebleeds. They are anterior nosebleeds and posterior nose bleeds. In this article we will try to focus on the topic Can Stress Cause Nosebleeds? What Study Says lets try to find out
Anterior Nosebleed
An Anterior nosebleed starts in the front nose on the lower part of the wall that separates the septum. The blood vessels in this front area of the nose are fragile and can easily break. Anterior nosebleeds are the results of the excessive dry or scratchy mucous membrane. These nosebleeds are not dangerous and can easily treat at home.
Posterior Nosebleed
A posterior nosebleed occurs inside the nose. When there is a bleed in larger blood vessels located in the back part of the nose. This is more dangerous than an anterior nosebleed. This type is common in adults.
Nosebleeds can occur to anyone. They are more likely to occur in some people. Who are they?
- Children between ages 2 and 10 with dry air, colds, and allergies.
- Adults between ages 45 and 65 with high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, or bleeding disorder
- Pregnant women with expanded nose blood vessels
- People taking medication like aspirin or warfarin and having blood clotting disorders
Causes Of Nosebleeds
Dry air is the common cause of nosebleeds. Both environments can contribute to the dry air. Other causes are;
- Nose picking
- Colds and sinusitis
- Blowing your nose
- Inserting a finger or other objects into your nose
- Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis
- Chemical irritants
- Cocaine and drugs usage
- Frequent use of nasal sprays and medications
- Alcohol use
- Bleeding disorders
- High blood pressures
- And more
What Is Stress?
Stress is a normal reaction that occurs in the body when there are changes in physical, emotional, and intellectual responses. The fight-or-flight response helps the body face stressful situations. Physical stress is characterized by the symptoms include;
- Acnes and pains
- Chest pain
- Trouble sleeping
- Headaches, dizziness
- High blood pressure
- Stomach upset
- Weak immune system
- Muscle pain
- Depression
- Sadness
- Panic attacks
Connection Between Stress And Nosebleeds- Can Stress Cause Nosebleeds?
A lot of unscientific evidence is there telling the connection between stress and nosebleeds. They are pointing out that stress and anxiety are the nosebleed triggers. The health conditions, medications, and certain behaviors that are causing stress and anxiety are having a connection to the cause of nosebleeds.
Stress Causing Factor and Nosebleeds
Stress may trigger health issues either physically or mentally or even both. A few examples are given below.
- Headache triggered by stress may cause a nosebleed
- Frequent nose blowing or picking while under stress can trigger a nosebleed.
- Anxiety during pregnancy, high altitudes traveling intense sports, or physical trauma can lead to bleeding in the nose. But the nosebleed is not purely due to stress or anxiety here; the health situation may be the main reason.
- Medical conditions like hypertension and high blood pressure may trigger nosebleeds.
- Medication such as blood thinners may worsen the nosebleeds.
Treatments For Stress-related Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are not usually dangerous, but the nosebleeds themselves increase the stress in you. How can you reduce nosebleeds related to anxiety or stress?
The steps need to follow, in general, if it is nosebleeds regardless of the cause.
- Sit straight by facing forward. It helps in blood flow out of the nose
- Apply pressure on the nostrils using your thumb and index finger. Be in this position for the next 10 to 15 minutes.
- Inhale and exhale through the mouth to stop further bleeding
- You can apply ice packs for quick blood clotting
When it is stress-related nosebleeds,
- Breathe slowly
- Listen to your breath and closely observe the rise and fall of your chest until the bleeding stops
- Be relaxed and have a stress-free mind
- Select the quiet place while treating nosebleeds. It helps to avoid people’s unwanted reactions.
You can prevent a nosebleed situation by following the stress relief technique. Practicing yoga might help in relieving stress. Other healthy habits can also help you to get relief from stress. What can you do?
- Drink plenty of water
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Do cardiovascular exercise regularly
- Get fresh air from outdoors
- Avoid chocolates and citrus fruits
- Use a humidifier in the bedroom
Nosebleeds are not serious symptoms if it is not from serious health conditions. If you have nosebleeds recurrently, if or if not related to stress, it is good to visit your doctor.
Also Read: Can Atrial Fibrillation Be Caused By Anxiety?
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