Epistaxis (Nosebleed)
Nose bleeds (epistaxis)
Epistaxis (nosebleed) is bleeding from the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity, unilateral or bilateral, that can occur spontaneously or after traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries.. Possible causes include foreign bodies, inflammatory conditions, tumors, blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders or high blood pressure. Severe or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. nose bleeds (epistaxis) requires timely diagnostics.
Nose bleeds (epistaxis) is the escape of blood from the nostrils or the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity. Unlike in humans, nose bleeds (epistaxis) in dogs and cats is a rarer, but usually more serious symptom. The anatomical peculiarity of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity in pets requires a rich blood supply through numerous vessels, which can lead to sometimes considerable bleeding in the event of injuries or diseases. The nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. is particularly sensitive and well supplied with blood, which makes it susceptible to bleeding. In dogs and cats, the nose bleeds (epistaxis) can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and varies in its intensity from slight oozing to massive, life-threatening bleeding. The bleeding can originate from the anterior nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. area (anterior epistaxis (nosebleed)) or from the posterior nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity (posterior epistaxis (nosebleed)), the latter often being more serious as blood can flow into the pharyngeal cavity and lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.
Causes
The causes of nose bleeds (epistaxis) in pets are varied and can be divided into local and systemic factors. Local causes include foreign bodies in the nose, which can be picked up by sniffing, such as blades of grass, small twigs or seeds. Traumatic injuries from falls, accidents or fights with other animals can also cause nose bleeds (epistaxis). Inflammatory conditions of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. (rhinitis) or the paranasal sinuses (sinusitis) are other common local causes.
In dogs, fungal infections, especially aspergillosis, are an important cause of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. nose bleeds (epistaxis). This infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. mainly affects long-nosed breeds and can cause considerable damage to the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients.. In cats, on the other hand, infections with the pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Cryptococcus neoformans are more common.
Tumors in the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. and pharyngeal cavity are among the more serious causes and occur particularly in older animals. In dogs, approximately 80% of nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. tumors are malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats., while in cats, lymphomas are more common.
Systemic causes include blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders, which can be congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. (such as Von Willebrand’s disease in certain dog breeds) or acquired (due to poisoning with anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. substances such as rat poison). Liver diseases can also lead to blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders, as the liver is responsible for the production of coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats.. High blood pressure, especially in older cats with kidney disease, can also cause nose bleeds (epistaxis).
Breed-specific predispositions play a role: Brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds such as pugs or bulldogs are more prone to anatomical abnormalities that can lead to nose bleeds (epistaxis), while certain collie breeds may have genetically determined blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders.
Symptoms
Nose bleeds (epistaxis) in dogs and cats
Typical Symptoms:
- Unilateral or bilateral nose bleeds (epistaxis), sneezing, licking
- Bloody drops/traces, possibly nose rubbing
- In mild form: short-term, self-limitingSelf-limiting conditions are conditions that resolve on their own without medical intervention. In dogs and cats, mild viral infections or gastrointestinal disturbances can often be self-limiting.
Alarm signs:
- Severe or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. bleeding, blood runs into the throat (cough/gagging)
- Bilateral epistaxis (nosebleed), bloody mucous membranes/petechiae
- Weakness, pale mucous membranes, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress
- TraumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. to the head, suspicion of foreign body/tumor (unilateral + foul odor)
Escalation/course:
- Recurring over days/weeks → clarification of blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound., blood pressure, tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions./infection
- Increasing amount of blood within hours → emergency
- Epistaxis (nosebleed) + hematomas/petechiae → high-grade blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. emergency
The most obvious symptom is blood coming out of one or both nostrils. The bleeding can be dripping, trickling or spraying, depending on the severity and origin of the bleeding. Accompanying symptoms may include sneezing, nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge or rubbing the nose on objects. In the case of heavier bleeding or if blood flows into the throat, gagging, coughing or swallowing of the blood may occur, which can lead to bloody vomiting.
Animals with nose bleeds (epistaxis) often show behavioral changes such as restlessness, anxiety or lethargy. In the event of massive blood loss, signs of shock may occur: pale mucous membranes, increased heart rate, shallow breathing and weakness leading to collapse. ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. nose bleeds (epistaxis) can lead to anemia, recognizable by lethargy, reduced performance and pale mucous membranes.
In the case of nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. tumors or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. inflammatory conditions, additional symptoms such as unilateral facial swelling, deformation of the bridge of the nose, eye discharge or neurological symptoms due to pressure on the brain may occur. RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress is a particularly alarming symptom that requires immediate veterinary attention.
First Aid
- Keep your pet calm.
- Do not raise the head. The aim is not for the blood to run backwards into the throat.
- Manipulations such as cooling are often unfavorable due to the animal’s distress.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of nose bleeds (epistaxis) requires a systematic approach. First, the veterinarian performs a thorough medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., in which information about the onset, duration and frequency of the bleeding as well as possible triggers or accompanying symptoms are requested. The clinical examination includes the assessment of vital signs, mucous membrane color and capillary refill time (CRT)The capillary refill time (CRT) is a quick test to assess circulation. It measures the time it takes for color to return to an area (usually the nail bed) after pressure is applied to force the blood out. A normal refill time is usually less than 2 seconds. to assess the circulatory status.
Laboratory tests are crucial to identify systemic causes. A complete blood count can provide information on inflammatory conditions, infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or anemia. Blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. parameters such as platelet count, prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) help to assess blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound.. Liver and kidney values can indicate organ diseases that cause blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders or high blood pressure.
Imaging procedures play a central role in diagnostics. X-rays of the skull can provide information on fractures, foreign bodies or pronounced changes. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. enable a detailed representation of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. and paranasal sinuses and are particularly valuable in the diagnosis of tumors, inflammatory conditions or deeper foreign bodies.
Rhinoscopyrhinoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which the nasal cavities are examined with a rhinoscope, a special endoscope. It is used to identify foreign bodies, Tumors, Inflammatory conditions, and other anomalies in the nose., an endoscopic examination of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity, allows direct visualization of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign bodies. Biopsies are often necessary to diagnose tumors and determine their type. If a fungal infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is suspected, specific cultures are created or PCR tests are performed.
Blood pressure measurement plays an important role, especially in cats, as high blood pressure is a common cause of nose bleeds (epistaxis) in this species.
Further veterinary measures
The treatment of nose bleeds (epistaxis) depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the bleeding. In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. nose bleeds (epistaxis), the initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. focus is on stabilizing the patient. This includes rest, slight cooling of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. region and a slightly lowered head position to facilitate drainageDrainage refers to the removal of fluid from body cavities, Wounds, or inflamed areas, often using a tube or other device. It is used to prevent infection and promote healing. of the blood and avoid swallowing. In the case of severe bleeding, inpatient admission with intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and, if necessary, blood transfusions may be necessary.
Local causes require specific treatments: Foreign objects are removed under sedationSedation refers to the state of calming or suppressing the central nervous system with medication, which reduces anxiety and irritability and sometimes induces a light sleep. or anesthesia, with rhinoscopyrhinoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which the nasal cavities are examined with a rhinoscope, a special endoscope. It is used to identify foreign bodies, Tumors, Inflammatory conditions, and other anomalies in the nose. often being helpful. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, and their selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats. is ideally based on an antibiogram. Fungal infections such as aspergillosis require long-term antifungalAntifungal means effective against fungal infections. Antifungal medications are used to treat infections caused by fungi by inhibiting their growth or reproduction, or by killing them. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., which can be systemic or local through irrigation of the nasal cavity.
Tumors pose a particular challenge. TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. options include surgical removal, radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. and, in some cases, chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells.. The choice depends on the type of tumor, its location and the general condition of the animal. In the case of inoperable tumors, palliativePalliative refers to treatments that aim to alleviate the symptoms of a disease without curing the disease itself. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life of patients with incurable diseases. radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. can help to improve the quality of life.
In systemic causes such as blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders, treatment of the underlying disease is crucial. In the case of poisoning with anticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders., vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K is administered as an antidoteAn antidote is a substance used to neutralize or reverse the harmful effects of poisoning or a drug overdose. Antidotes can be specific to certain poisons or have more general detoxifying effects.. Liver diseases require comprehensive therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. that includes medication, diet and supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures. High blood pressure is treated with antihypertensive drugs such as ACE inhibitors.
In severe cases, hemostatic drugs such as tranexamic acid or etamsylate can be used. In the case of therapy-resistant bleeding, a tamponade of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity or, in rare cases, a surgical procedure to ligate bleeding vessels may be necessary.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for nose bleeds (epistaxis) varies greatly depending on the underlying cause. In the case of one-off bleeding caused by traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. or foreign bodies, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good after successful treatment. Bacterial infections usually respond well to antibiotics, while fungal infections require a longer treatment period and relapses are possible.
In the case of tumors, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the type of tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions., the stage at diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and the available treatment options. Unfortunately, many nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. tumors in dogs and cats have a cautious to unfavorable prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop., as they are often only detected in advanced stages.
Systemic diseases such as blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders or high blood pressure require continuous monitoring and treatment, with the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depending on the controllability of the underlying disease.
Aftercare includes regular check-ups with the veterinarian, monitoring for recurrence of bleeding and consistent implementation of the prescribed therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. In the case of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. underlying diseases, regular blood tests and, if necessary, imaging procedures are important for monitoring the course of the disease.
Pet owners should pay attention to signs of relapse and know how to react in an emergency. A calm environment for the animal, avoidance of physical exertion and stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and an adapted diet can support recovery.
Summary
Nose bleeds (epistaxis) in dogs and cats is a serious symptom that can have various causes, from harmless foreign bodies to serious systemic diseases or tumors. Unlike in humans, nose bleeds (epistaxis) is rarer in pets and should therefore always be clarified by a veterinarian.
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. requires a thorough examination, which includes laboratory tests, imaging procedures and, if necessary, endoscopic examinations. The treatment depends on the underlying cause and ranges from simple measures such as the removal of foreign bodies to complex therapies for tumors or systemic diseases.
The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends heavily on the cause, with local, treatable problems having a better prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. than advanced tumors or severe systemic diseases. Consistent aftercare and observation of the animal for signs of relapse are important for long-term treatment success.
Pet owners should know how to provide first aid in the event of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. nose bleeds (epistaxis) and when a visit to the veterinarian is urgently required. A calm approach to the animal and the avoidance of stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can help to avoid worsening the nose bleeds (epistaxis).
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of diagnostics and treatment of nose bleeds (epistaxis) in pets is constantly evolving. New imaging techniques with higher resolution enable a more precise representation of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavities and adjacent structures, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. The development of minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. endoscopic techniques improves the possibilities for taking tissue samples and treating diseases in the nasal cavity with less stress for the animal.
In the field of tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. treatment, targeted therapies are being researched that are specifically tailored to the molecular properties of certain tumors. Immunotherapeutic approaches that activate the body’s own immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. to fight tumors are showing promising results in preclinical studies.
The improvement of diagnostic tests for fungal infections enables a faster and more reliable diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of this common cause of nose bleeds (epistaxis) in dogs. New antifungalAntifungal means effective against fungal infections. Antifungal medications are used to treat infections caused by fungi by inhibiting their growth or reproduction, or by killing them. agents with better efficacy and fewer side effects are under development.
Advances in blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. research are leading to a better understanding of rare blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders and the development of more specific treatment options. The increasing availability of point-of-care coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. tests (blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. tests at the site of the event) enables faster diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and initiation of therapy in emergency situations.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Is nose bleeds (epistaxis) in my pet always an emergency?
Not every nose bleeds (epistaxis) requires immediate veterinary attention, but it should never be ignored. Immediate help is necessary in the event of severe or persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. bleeding, respiratory distress, weakness or if the animal is already suffering from known diseases. - Can I help my dog or cat myself with nose bleeds (epistaxis)?
You can provide first aid by calming your animal, keeping its head slightly down and cooling it gently if necessary. Avoid manipulating the nose and take the animal to the vet if the bleeding persists. - Why is my animal only bleeding from one nostril?
Unilateral nose bleeds (epistaxis) often indicates a local cause such as a foreign body, unilateral inflammatory conditions or a tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions.. It is important to have this clarified by a veterinarian. - Can certain dog breeds suffer from nose bleeds (epistaxis) more often?
Yes, brachycephalic breeds such as pugs or bulldogs are more susceptible to nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. problems due to their anatomy. Certain collie breeds may have genetically determined blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders that can lead to nose bleeds (epistaxis). - How can I tell if my cat has high blood pressure?
High blood pressure does not cause specific symptoms, but can lead to nose bleeds (epistaxis), eye changes or neurological symptoms. A blood pressure measurement by the veterinarian is required for diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. - Are nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. tumors in pets always malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats.?
In dogs, approximately 80% of nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. tumors are malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats., while the ratio is somewhat more favorable in cats. A biopsy is necessary for accurate determination. - How long does the treatment of a fungal infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in the nose take?
The treatment of fungal infections such as aspergillosis can take several months and requires regular check-ups. The exact duration depends on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the response to therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. - Can stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. nose bleeds (epistaxis) in my pet?
StressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. alone rarely causes nose bleeds (epistaxis), but can lead to a deterioration in animals with high blood pressure or existing nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. problems. - Which poisonings can lead to nose bleeds (epistaxis)?
In particular, rodenticides (rat poison) with an anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. effect can lead to nose bleeds (epistaxis) and other bleeding. Certain plants and medications can also cause bleeding in rare cases. - Can a special diet prevent or treat nose bleeds (epistaxis)?
A balanced diet supports general health, but there is no specific diet for nose bleeds (epistaxis). In the case of blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders, a vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K-rich diet can have a supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. effect, but should always be discussed with the veterinarian.
Literature
- Lent, S. E., & Hawkins, E. C. (1992). Evaluation of rhinoscopy and rhinoscopy-assisted mucosal biopsy in diagnosis of nasal disease in dogs: 119 cases (1985–1989). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 201(9), 1425–1429. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.1992.201.09.1425
- Lobetti, R. G. (2009). A retrospective study of chronic nasal disease in 75 dogs. Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, 80(4), 224–228. https://doi.org/10.4102/jsava.v80i4.212
- Löwe, G., & Löwe, O. (2021). Notfälle bei Hund und Katze – Ein tierärztlicher Ratgeber. Kynos-Verlag.
- Meler, E., Dunn, M., & Lecuyer, M. (2008). A retrospective study of canine persistent nasal disease: 80 cases (1998–2003). Canadian Veterinary Journal, 49(1), 71–76. (DOI nicht verfügbar)
- Müller, S. (2017). Memorix Notfallmedizin (10. Aufl.). Georg Thieme Verlag.
- Plickert, H. D., Tichy, A., & Hirt, R. A. (2014). Characteristics of canine nasal discharge related to intranasal diseases: A retrospective study of 105 cases. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 55(3), 145–152. https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.12175
- Reed, N., & Gunn-Moore, D. (2012). Nasopharyngeal disease in cats: Diagnostic investigation and management. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 14(5), 306–315. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X12444997