According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, some children, especially preschoolers, have one or more nosebleeds a week, which is neither abnormal nor dangerous. Nosebleeds can be caused by anything from colds and allergies, picking the nose, low humidity, blowing too hard, or a broken blood vessel in the nose or on the surface of the lining. The child may also have been hit in the nose by a ball or other object. On a more serious level, nosebleeds may be caused by abnormal tissue growths, blood clotting, or some chronic illnesses. To stop a nosebleed, keep the child in a sitting or standing position, with the head tilted slightly forward. Pinch the lower, soft half of the child's nose between your thumb and finger and hold it firmly for several minutes. Have the child breathe through the mouth, not the nose. Then apply soft compresses against the nose. If the bleeding continues, repeat the procedure. Don't stuff tissues, gauze, or any other material in the child's nose to stop the bleeding. Don't let the child blow his or her nose for several hours after the bleeding stops. If it continues, seek medical aid from a doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.
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