Persistent Nosebleeds After Cauterization
My mother, aged 60, has been experiencing nosebleeds for the past two decades, typically resolving within an hour. However, the last few instances have been unusually prolonged. She recently underwent cauterization three times within this year alone, and unfortunately, her condition seems to have deteriorated. Now, blood is also emerging from her opposite nostril and her ear. Despite the doctor applying nasal packing, the bleeding continues internally, and she is enduring significant pressure in her ear and head. I’m reaching out to see if anyone has suggestions or advice on this matter, as we are quite concerned.
Answers (1)
8/27/2025, 12:53:19 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your mother's situation; it sounds quite distressing and understandably worrying for you. Given her history of persistent nosebleeds, recent cauterizations, and the new symptoms of bleeding from the opposite nostril and ear, it's important to address this carefully.
Main Points:
- Ongoing or worsening nosebleeds after cauterization can indicate an underlying issue.
- Symptoms like ear pressure and bleeding from the ear might suggest that more is happening than just nasal issues.
Explanation:
Nosebleeds can be caused by several factors, including dry air, nasal trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Cauterization is often done to seal off blood vessels, but in some cases, it may not resolve the issue or it can lead to complications, such as new bleeding sites. Additionally, the bleeding from the ear and pressure in her head could signal a connection with her nasal issues or could indicate a separate problem that needs further evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of her symptoms, noting the frequency, duration, and any other associated symptoms (like headaches or changes in hearing).
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Manage Environment: Ensure that the air in her home is humidified to prevent dryness, which can worsen nosebleeds. Consider using saline nasal sprays to keep her nasal passages moist.
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Avoid Irritants: Encourage her to avoid nasal irritants (like smoking or strong odors) which can aggravate the nasal passages.
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Seek Urgent Care: Given the worsening symptoms and particularly the new bleeding from her ear, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Describe all symptoms clearly to her healthcare provider, including the history of nosebleeds and any other recent changes.
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Consider Follow-Up Tests: If bleedings persist, ask the doctor about potential follow-up tests. These could include blood tests to check for clotting disorders, imaging studies (like a CT scan) to assess the nasal and sinus structures, or referrals to specialists such as an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor.
Taking these steps can help manage her symptoms and provide clarity on her condition. I hope she finds relief soon, and please let me know if you have further questions or need more assistance.
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