Seasonal Variance in the Incidence Rate of Epistaxis: An Observational Study

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Epistaxis is a common otorhinolaryngological emergency with variable etiological factors. Seasonal influences on its incidence remain underreported in tropical regions like Bangladesh, where climatic conditions fluctuate markedly. Objective: To determine the seasonal variance in the incidence rate of epistaxis among patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: A prospective observational study was conducted at Department of ENT, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh, from January 2024 to December 2025. A total of 143 patients with epistaxis were enrolled using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Seasonal categorization followed the standard Bangladeshi pattern: winter (December-February), summer (March-May), monsoon (June-September), and autumn (October-November). Incidence rates across seasons were compared. Results: Of 143 patients, the highest incidence of epistaxis occurred in winter (n=66, 46.2%), followed by summer (n=38, 26.6%), monsoon (n=22, 15.4%), and autumn (n=17, 11.9%), with a statistically significant seasonal difference (p<0.001). The bimodal age distribution showed peaks at 6-15 years (n=51, 35.7%) and 51-70 years (n=47, 32.9%). Anterior bleeding predominated (n=124, 86.7%). Male preponderance was observed (n=88, 61.5%). Conclusion: Epistaxis in Dhaka demonstrates significant winter predominance. The bimodal age distribution and anterior bleeding pattern align with global literature. These findings support seasonal resource allocation and preventive strategies during high-risk winter months.