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In most cases a nosebleed is easily stopped and there is no need for further investigation. However, if the bleeding is difficult to stop or occurs frequently, you need to see your doctor. Your doctor will obtain a medical history from you and perform a physical examination with a special instrument to look inside your nose and check exactly where the problem lies.
Medical history questions documenting nosebleeds may include:
• How much bleeding is there?
• When did the nosebleeds begin?
• Do they occur frequently or repeatedly?
• What other symptoms are present?
• Is there blood in your faeces or are you vomiting blood?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
• Complete blood count
• Partial thromboplastin time measurements
• Prothrombin (PT)
Reviewed by Dr Gary Kroukamp MBCHB, FCORL (SA) Ear, Nose and throat specialist in private practice, Claremont Cape Town. February 2015.
Previously Reviewed by Prof Don du Toit (M.B.Ch.B) (D.Phil.) (PhD) (FCS) (FRCS).
