The rate of spontaneous epistaxis is not linked to the lunar cycle but shows seasonal variations.
Since 50-60% of the human body consists of water, the physiology of blood circulation might be affected by a full moon differently than during other days of the month. This study analyzed a potential association among lunar phases, seasonal variations, and the rate of spontaneous epistaxis. Consecutive admissions solely for spontaneous epistaxis to an otolaryngology emergency room of a single medical center during 1 year were evaluated. The applied tests failed to show changes of admissions during different lunar phases. According to multiple comparisons, admissions were significantly less frequent during the summer months, similar to findings from other countries of the northern hemisphere with varying climates, suggesting an influence of circannual rhythms rather than of environmental conditions.
Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sheba Medical Center , Ramat Gan , Israel and.
Shay Izhak
SI
Duvdevani
Lela
L
Migirov
Michael
M
Wolf
Arkadi
A
Yakirevitch
D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology*; D004844:Epistaxis / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D016081:Moon; D012621:Seasons
Circannual rhythm; epistaxis; phase of moon