Epistaxis

Question 1

What is the most likely location of the bleeding in epistaxis?

Answer 1

Little’s area (anterior nasal mucosa)

Question 2

When would you suspect a posterior bleed?

Posterior bleeding is associated with a higher risk of…

Answer 2

Bleeding from both nostrils

Aspiration

Question 3

Describe the treatment options for a severe nosebleed (if does not stop following conservative measures, e.g. nasal pinching and leaning forwards)

Answer 3

• Nasal packing (if bleeding source cannot be identified)
• Nasal cautery (if bleeding source can be identified)
• Surgery (artery ligation)

Question 4

What treatment would you consider following an acute nosebleed?

Answer 4

Naseptin cream (chlorhexidine and neomycin)