Epistaxis is a common, potentially life-threatening condition which arises from damaged blood vessels within the nasal cavity. The common causes include: trauma, hypertension, bleeding diatheses, allergies, dry environment, anticoagulants and intranasal drugs. There is a bimodal peak in childhood and older adulthood. Epistaxis is often classified into ‘anterior’ and ‘posterior’, although there is no definitive border between these two. Anterior epistaxis commonly originates from Kiesselbach’s plexus (Little’s area), which denotes the confluence of arteries on the anterior nasal septum. Posterior epistaxis is much less common due to better protection from trauma, heat and dryness than the anterior nasal cavity. Therefore, these bleeds are more commonly associated with underlying pathology such as hypertension, anticoagulation or bleeding disorders. Epistaxis is always managed with first-aid principles initially: by pinching the cartilaginous nose and sitting forward. If these measures fail, a treatment ladder should be followed: nasal cautery, packing and examination under anaesthesia. In severe, irretractable cases, embolisation, sphenopalatine artery ligation or carotid tie-off may all be considered but carry significant risks.