OpenHealth Q&A

It sounds like you’re experiencing recurrent nasal bleeding following a minor injury, which can be concerning, especially given your medical history and smoking habits. Here are the main points to consider regarding your situation:

1. Nasal Trauma and Blood Vessels: The scratch to your septum may have damaged a small blood vessel, which could lead to the bleeding episodes you’ve experienced. Physical activities and actions like drying out the nasal passages (which can happen with smoking) may exacerbate this.

2. Medication Effects: Lisinopril (a blood pressure medication) and Adderall can have varying impacts on your vascular health, but they aren't typically associated with increased bleeding. However, smoking can worsen nasal irritation and reduce healing, contributing to persistent bleeding.

3. Cauterization Consideration: While cauterization is a common procedure for stopping recurrent nasal bleeding, it's usually considered when other remedies have failed or if there's a clear ongoing issue. However, professional evaluation is important to assess any underlying concerns.

Here’s a structured plan to help you manage this situation:

Immediate Steps:

• Avoid Irritants: Since smoking seems to trigger bleeding, consider reducing or quitting smoking if possible. This will help improve nasal health and overall well-being.
• Humidity: Use a humidifier in your home to keep nasal passages moist, particularly in dry environments. Saline nasal sprays can also help hydrate the area.

Self-Care Actions:

• Gentle Care of the Nasal Area: Avoid picking or touching your nose, especially the septum, to allow healing.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the frequency and triggers of your nosebleeds, noting when they occur and under what conditions. This information will be helpful if you need further assessment later.

When to Seek Further Attention:

• If you experience persistent or worsening bleeding, especially if it lasts longer than 20-30 minutes despite trying to manage it, or if you observe blood pressure changes or other troubling symptoms, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation.

By focusing on these actions, you can help manage your symptoms effectively while considering whether or not further medical intervention is required. If things don’t improve or if your concern persists, getting a professional opinion may be beneficial.