Risk Factors of Epistaxis in Primary School Children in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Epistaxis is a common pediatric complaint, so we study its risk factors trying to control and decrease it among primary school children. Objectives: To determine frequency of epistaxis and to assess the risk factors of epistaxis in primary school children (8-12 years old). Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study that was conducted on 312 children. Sample was collected by systematic random technique from the children attending to Family Health Center, Sanafa, Mit-Ghamr city, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. Participants’ data regarding socio-demographic characteristics, and risk factors were collected via predesigned questionnaire. Results: The study revealed that prevalence of epistaxis among the studied group was 32.4% and the most common risk factors among the studied group were smoking, head trauma, factory gases, chronic cough and upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) (56.7%, 45.8%, 35.6%, 32.7% & 30.1% respectively). Conclusion: Recurrent epistaxis can be troublesome and alarming for parents and children. so special attention must be given for it.