What is the medical term for nosebleeds?

The correct medical term for nosebleeds is epistaxis. This term specifically refers to the bleeding from the nasal cavity, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as dry air, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding this term is important in both clinical settings and when discussing symptoms with patients, as it encompasses the various types of nasal bleeding.

The other terms listed have different meanings: ecchymosis refers to large bruises or discoloration of the skin due to bleeding under the skin, petechiae are small, pinpoint red or purple spots resulting from bleeding, often indicating a more serious condition, and hematuria specifically relates to the presence of blood in urine, which is entirely unrelated to nasal bleeding. Recognizing these distinctions is essential for accurate communication in medical contexts.