Dr Phil Kieran: My son has nosebleeds three times a week

A GP addresses a parent's concern regarding a 13-year-old's frequent nosebleeds, suggesting that while usually benign, they may be linked to irritation or physical activity. The doctor recommends a medical check-up and the use of saline rinses to manage dry nasal passages.
Why it matters
Provides accessible medical guidance for common pediatric health concerns, emphasizing the importance of professional consultation.
For most, nosebleeds are infrequent and don’t last very long. Picture: iStock
Dr Phil Kieran is a full-time GP practising in Cork. He previously presented RTE's 'You Should Really See a Doctor' and 'How Long Will You Live?'.
My 13-year-old son has started to get nosebleeds two to three times a week. They don’t last long — usually just a few minutes — and stop quickly when we pinch his nose. The bleeds mostly happen in the evening or after he plays hurling. Though he knows he shouldn’t, he picks his nose when it’s dry, as he finds the crusted blood annoying. We have no family history of blood disorders, and he otherwise seems well. What would you suggest?
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