Nosebleeds: A Symptom of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia

Abstract

Nosebleeds are common occurrences that resolve spontaneously with supportive care and without long-term sequelae. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and other health care providers may not recognize a nosebleed as the most common symptom of a rare genetic disease, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Delaying the recognition and diagnosis of this blood vessel dysplasia increases the risk of complications, which may include increased morbidity and premature death. APRNs have opportunities to identify patients with nosebleeds and a concomitant family history of HHT. Awareness and understanding of HHT among APRNs can significantly support the timely and potentially lifesaving diagnosis of the disease.