Q: I have been having nosebleeds most nights for the last month or so. Thinking it might be a sign of something serious, I went for a checkup with my doctor. Luckily, she found nothing serious or new.

While I'm glad that it's not a big deal, I would still like to stop the bleeding. By the time I wake up, the nosebleed has stopped, but my pillowcases and sheets have blood smeared all over!

What can I do about my frequent nosebleeds?

A: Nosebleeds are common for seniors, as drier, thinner skin has the tendency to crack and bleed.

The natural aging process causes skin to get thinner and more easily damaged, making small irritations into a huge mess. Seniors are forced to think twice about habitual actions, like blowing or picking at their noses.

Even though you can't avoid the facts of aging, you can do your best to avoid the immediate causes.

You're probably already familiar with the usual suspects for nosebleeds — dry air, a cold or allergies. Less familiar causes include overconsumption of alcohol — which interferes with clotting and blood vessel size — medication side effects or chemicals.

Polluted air also causes nosebleeds, as it irritates and damages the skin inside your nose. Try to stay inside, especially if there are fires outside.

If you smoke, here's another reason to consider stopping. Tobacco also affects delicate skin, making it more likely to tear.

To cut down on the bleeding, be gentler on your nose and make sure your nails are well-trimmed. You can also moisturize the inside of your nose with a saline product or petroleum jelly. During the night, a humidifier will help with the dry air.

If you can't stop the occasional bleeding and are still healthy, remember some laundry basics!

The best time to deal with blood on fabric is when it's still fresh and wet. If you catch it early, soak the item immediately in cold water and then rub gently with soap.

If the stain is dry, soak the fabric with a stain-removal solution. After giving the solution time to work, put your bedding through the laundry with an enzyme detergent (most brands are enzyme-based).

Before placing your bedding in the dryer, check it for resistant stains. A dryer's heat will set stains into the fabric and make them almost impossible to get out. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

TREATED LIKE DAY CARE

Q: My son and his wife waited quite a while to have kids, but I now have the cutest grandson. He's 8 years old, and I love spending time with him.

Several times a week, my son and daughter-in-law drop in at my home and leave their son with me for a few hours while they go around town. I can't help but feel that I'm being taken advantage of for free babysitting and day care.

What should I do?

A: Set some boundaries.

Many grandparents are put in the same situation, as their adult children want time to themselves and assume you are thrilled to spend the quality time with your grandchildren.

Meanwhile, you'd like to have a life of your own. Having your family drop in last-minute means you can't plan your own life.

Communication is key.

Tell your son and daughter-in-law your expectations and schedule. How many times a week are you willing to watch your grandson?

Suggest they find a better long-term solution. If they're looking for a child care option, you might offer to help watch your grandson temporarily — but set a time limit.

Your ultimate goal is to preserve your relationships. A kind but firm attitude will help you achieve this. — Doug

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Kawamaru at Pixabay