Epistaxis historical perspective
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Amir Behzad Bagheri, M.D.
Overview
In past centuries, it was believed that epistaxis was caused by internal diseases. As the medical knowledge advanced, it was understood that that nasal compression can stop bleeding. Hippocrates is believed to be the first to use a instrument to stop nasal bleeding. The term epistaxis was originally derived from the Greek word epistazein (epi – above, over; stazein – to drip).
Historical Perspective
- The term epistaxis was originally derived from the Greek word epistazein (epi – above, over; stazein – to drip). [1]
- In past centuries, it was thought that epistaxis was due to internal diseases.
- In the late of 19th century, J. L. Little and W. Kiesselbach found that there is a plexus of vessels in the anterior part of nose which is source of most nasal bleedings.[1]
- It was discovered empirically that nasal compression can stop bleeding. There were some beliefs that nasal bleeding could also be stopped by transfering blood to other parts of the body. Tourniquets were used for this purpose.[1]
References
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