44.9k views
5 votes
The nurse is treating a patient for a nosebleed. The patient complains of frequent nosebleeds. What could be a possible cause of the nosebleeds?

A. Excessive cilia
B. Tobacco use
C. Snorting cocaine
D. Hypotension

1 Answer

0 votes

Final answer:

Frequent nosebleeds can be caused by tobacco use or snorting cocaine, which irritate or damage the nasal mucosa. Hypotension is not a typical cause of nosebleeds, whereas high blood pressure might contribute to them. During pregnancy, increased blood flow can cause the mucosa to swell, leading to nosebleeds, especially in dry conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

One possible cause of frequent nosebleeds is tobacco use, which can dry out and irritate the nasal mucosa. Another common cause is snorting substances such as cocaine, which can cause the blood vessels within the nose to constrict, damage the mucosal lining, and lead to nosebleeds. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is generally not associated with nosebleeds. In fact, high blood pressure could lead to nosebleeds due to increased stress on the blood vessels. Excessive cilia would not cause nosebleeds, as their primary function is to move mucus out of the nasal passages and respiratory tract. During pregnancy, the respiratory mucosa swell due to increased blood flow, which can also lead to nosebleeds, especially in cold and dry conditions. Humidifier use and increased fluid intake are recommended to help with the congestion that often accompanies nosebleeds in this situation.

User Ahsan Ullah Rasel
by
8.3k points