Dear Bloody face,

Nosebleeds are loss of blood from the mucous membrane that lines the nose, most often from inside one nostril only. Nosebleeds are most common in childhood, infrequent in healthy young adults, and become more common and serious in old age. The most common causes of nosebleeds are a blow to the nose, fragile blood vessels, or dislodging crusts that form in the mucous membrane as a result of a cold or infection. The dry heat of NYC could definitely cause a strain on the blood vessels in your nose. Rarely, recurrent nosebleeds are a sign of an underlying disorder, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), a bleeding disorder, or a tumor of the nose of sinuses.

In terms of prevention, if you do think the dry air could be the culprit, why not try a humidifier in your room or apartment? A less expensive choice is to put pans of water on top of your radiators, refilling as necessary. If you still get them, remember that most nosebleeds can be controlled by simple first aid measures. Sit in a chair, leaning forward slightly with your mouth held open so that blood or clots do not obstruct the airway. Pinch the lower part of your nostrils for about 15 minutes. Breathe through your mouth. Release your nostrils slowly after the time is up, and avoid touching or blowing your nose. If your nosebleeds are continuing consistently, why not see a doctor at Health Services to rule out some of those rarer possibilities.

In terms of your gums, the bleeding is nearly always a symptom of gingivitis, an early, reversible stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis occurs if plaque, which contains bacteria, is allowed to collect around the base of the teeth. Untreated gingivitis may lead to periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease, in which pockets form between the gums and the teeth. Very rarely, bleeding gums are due to leukemia (blood cell cancer) or scurvy (Vitamin C deficiency). So, Alice suggests a good cleaning at the dentist and a few extra vitamin C. If you do have excellent dental hygiene and have recently visited a dentist, please make an appointment at Health Services at Columbia (x4-2284) and let them know about both your bleeding gums and nosebleeds.

Alice

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