Is It Normal to Experience Nosebleeds Before Menstruation?
Experiencing nosebleeds before menstruation is a rare but normal occurrence, reports Estronaut. In a process called vicarious menstruation, hormonal fluctuations cause the blood vessels in the nose to fill up, resulting in a nosebleed.
Traditional Chinese Medicine reports similar occurrences of nosebleeds preceding menstruation, with Shen-Nong Limited attributing the phenomenon to a reversed qi flow that forces blood out of its standard pathways. Traditional Chinese Medicine associates these nosebleeds with individuals who have shorter, delayed or infrequent menstrual flows. The nosebleeds are also split into two categories based on the amount and color of blood present.
An excess gathering of blood in the nasal membranes is often the cause of nosebleeds not precipitated by dry air or irritation, claims Estronaut. Vitamin deficiencies, hypertension, drugs and bleeding disorders are all common culprits.
To treat nosebleeds, WebMD suggests tipping the head forward and gently squeezing the soft tissue above the nostrils shut, applying pressure to stem the blood flow. Pinch for at least 10 minutes, icing the nose and cheeks to help stop the bleeding. After 10 minutes, check to see if the nose is still bleeding; if it is, continue pinching for another 10 minutes. Nosebleeds that last longer than 20 minutes may need medical attention. Once the bleeding has stopped, lightly coat Vaseline on the interior of the nostrils, and resist blowing the nose for at least 12 hours.
