Epistaxis: evaluation and treatment.

Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is a common disorder that many patients will experience. Most patients go to the emergency room when they have an uncontrolled nosebleed, or they may present to an outpatient office. Most nosebleeds are not life-threatening and can be managed conservatively. Occasionally, hospital admission, referral to an otolaryngologist physician, and/or blood transfusion may be necessary. This article is an update on the latest information related to the prevention, causes, and treatment of epistaxis.