Understanding Frequent Nosebleeds in Children: Causes & When to Worry

Nosebleeds are not uncommon among children. In fact, some preschoolers have several a week. Most of the time, these nosebleeds are not abnormal or dangerous.

Common Causes

• If a child has a cold or allergies, his nasal passages could become swollen and irritated, causing a nosebleed. In addition, low humidity could be the cause. Very dry air can make the lining of the nostrils dry out and bleed.

Nose-Picking

• Excessive nose-picking also causes reoccurring nosebleeds. If you think your child might be picking his nose at night or in his sleep, put cotton gloves or socks over his hands to keep him from causing nosebleeds.

Anatomical Problems

• The structure of a child's nose could be abnormal, making him more susceptible to nosebleeds.

Abnormal Growths

• Abnormal growths, or polyps, in the nose can cause nosebleeds. Typically, these polyps are not cancerous, but a doctor will need to remove them.

Clotting

• Problems with blood clotting can cause nosebleeds. Some medications, such as aspirin, can prevent proper clotting, but some diseases, such as hemophilia, can be the cause.

When to Call the Doctor

• If your child has reoccurring nosebleeds, he should see a pediatrician to check for severe causes, such as growths or blood-clotting concerns..