Epistaxis. Strategies for management.
BACKGROUND
Epistaxis is a problem frequently encountered in general practice and may present as an emergency, as a chronic problem of recurrent bleeds or may be a symptom of a generalised disorder.


OBJECTIVE
To provide practical guidelines for the management of the patient with epistaxis, with emphasis on the important aspects of patient history, examination and whether investigations are necessary.


CONCLUSIONS
Given adequate knowledge of anatomy and clinical technique, epistaxis is easily managed. A focus on important aspects of history and examination assists in determining the site of bleeding and whether further investigations are necessary. Management includes resuscitation, if necessary, followed by cautery and/or packing of the site.
Pond
F
F
Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.
Sizeland
A
A
D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic / Q000379:methods*; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods; D004844:Epistaxis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012008:Recurrence; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome