Epistaxis management: what's new and what's noteworthy.

In many ways, the treatment of epistaxis is not new. Nasal packing was used in the 4th century BC. Our modern-day management of epistaxis is a little more sophisticated, with the advent of new products, rigid endoscopes, improved surgical techniques, and arterial embolization. Research plays a critical role in shaping our epistaxis practice management. Epistaxis is recognized as one of the most common ear, nose, and throat (ENT) problems; it affects persons of all ages. Proper first aid steps can be effective. Only 10% of individuals with nasal bleeding seek medical attention. Health care providers in all primary care settings encounter patients experiencing epistaxis and need to be knowledgeable in emergency epistaxis management. The evaluation will be key to successful identification of the site of bleeding and to identify possible underlying cause(s) that will guide treatment options.