Prevalence, Patterns, Aetiology, Comorbidities and Management of Epistaxis in an Emergency Department in Central Tanzania DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajhs.v38i3.6

Abstract

Background: Epistaxis is a common otorhinolaryngological emergency, affecting up to 60% of the population during their lifetime, with 6% requiring medical attention. Despite being self-limited, it can be life-threatening and requires prompt intervention. There is a lack of epidemiological data on epistaxis in Central Tanzania. This study determined the prevalence, patterns, etiologies, associated comorbidities and treatment modalities of epistaxis among patients presenting to a regional emergency department in Central Tanzania.

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 306 patients was conducted at Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital from April to July 2024. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 23.

Results: Among 306 patients (58.8% male; mean age 28±22 years), epistaxis prevalence was 15%. Epistaxis was slightly more prevalent in females (15.9%) than males (14.4%), with no significant association between sex and prevalence of epistaxis (p = 0.746). Anterior epistaxis predominated (73.9%), mostly of acute onset (71.7%). Anterior epistaxis was more common in males (88.5%) than in females (55%), whereas posterior and combined epistaxis were more frequent in females. There was a significant association between epistaxis type and sex (p=0.000). Anterior epistaxis predominated across all age groups, while posterior epistaxis was more common among patients aged 0–10 (33.3%). The association between age and type of epistaxis was statistically significant (p = 0.05). Local (71.7%) and non-traumatic causes (60.9%) were most common. Hypertension (17.4%) was the leading comorbidity. Seasonal occurrence of epistaxis was more common during the rainy season in half of the patients. Anterior nasal packing was the primary treatment modality (41.3%).

Conclusion: Epistaxis was relatively prevalent in this setting, with anterior epistaxis being most common. Trauma and hypertension were key contributors. These findings underscore the need to strengthen emergency management protocols and preventive education at regional health facilities in Tanzania.