Medical Problems: Epistaxis

OVERVIEW

This page is designed to organize content that is relevant to the topic of epistaxis. This term is used often in medicine, and it is important that we become as familiar as possible with it.

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WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?

Before going any farther, let us make sure we clearly define the “medical problem”. Epistaxis refers to bleeding from the nostrils of the nose.

WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?

 

ORGANIZING THE DIFFERENTIAL

The differential diagnosis for epistaxis can be organized in a few different ways:

  • Can’t miss diagnosis
  • Organ systen
  • Disease category
  • Diagnostic modality
  • Most common diagnosis
CLINICAL “WORKUP”

Now that the possible causes of epistaxis have been established, the focus can shift to how one would actually “work-up” a patient who presents with epistaxis. 

  • Collecting the history
  • Performing the physical
  • Ordering studies/tests
  • Intrepreting clinical data
TREATMENT

The treatment of epistaxis may vary depending on the etiology of the condition, and is elaborated upon more below:

  • Overview of treatments 

 

Page Updated: 12.13.2016