Pathophysiology
Anterior Epistaxis (90%): Source: Keisselbach’s Plexus
Posterior Epistaxis (10%): Source: Internal Maxillary artery – sphenopalatine branch. More common in elderly
Causes:
Local (most common)
Trauma;
Nose picking
Dry air
Irritants (e.g. Tobacco smoke, repeated Cocaine use)
Topical medications (e.g. Intranasal Steroids)
Nasal Foreign Body
Forceful nose blowing
Nasal surgery
Intranasal polyp or neoplasm
Systemic causes (uncommon)
Bleeding Disorder (uncommon cause of Epistaxis)
NSAIDs, Aspirin or Anticoagulant use
Hypertension – Rarely causes Epistaxis