Nasal Cauterisation

Causes and Symptoms

Nosebleeds in young children are primarily caused by the bursting of blood vessels in the front part of the nose (anterior section). This is most observed in this age group. Inside the nostril, along the septum, there is a region known as Little’s area where four different blood supplies converge, forming a network of veins that are very close to the surface.

Additionally, young children often suffer from a mild nasal cavity infection called vestibulitis. As a result, even minor trauma can trigger nosebleeds. This condition can be exacerbated by allergies or viral infections.

Treatment

In many cases, applying antibiotic ointments such as Bactroban twice daily for two weeks can effectively stop nosebleeds in many children. However, if nosebleeds persist, cauterising the blood vessels using silver nitrate by a nose surgeon is a successful outpatient procedure. This is done after applying a local anaesthetic nasal spray. Typically, both sides of the septum are not cauterised simultaneously to avoid the small risk of septal perforation. For the best long-term results, cauterisation often needs to be performed on at least three separate occasions, spaced six weeks apart.