Epistaxis (Nosebleeds) ByMarvin P. Fried, MD, Montefiore Medical Center, The University Hospital of Albert Einstein College of Medicine Reviewed/Revised May 2023 Pathophysiology | Etiology | Evaluation | Treatment | Key Points Epistaxis is nose bleeding. Bleeding can range from a trickle to a strong flow, and the consequences can range from a minor annoyance to life-threatening hemorrhage. Pathophysiology of Epistaxis Most nasal bleeding is anterior, originating from a plexus of vessels in the anteroinferior septum (Kiesselbach area). Less common but more serious are posterior nosebleeds, which originate in the posterior septum overlying the vomer bone or laterally on the inferior or middle turbinate. Posterior nosebleeds tend to occur in patients who have preexisting atherosclerotic vessels or bleeding disorders and have had nasal or sinus surgery. Etiology of Epistaxis The most common causes of epistaxis are Local trauma (eg, nose blowing and picking) Drying of the nasal mucosa ...