Nose bleeds, medically known as epistaxis, are generally not serious, though they can be scary. The inside of your nose is lined with tiny blood vessels that can become dried out and irritated, which causes scabs. When the scabs come off due to blowing your nose, or getting it bumped, rubbed or picked, you get a nose bleed. Stopping a nose bleed may take a few minutes, so the important thing -- whether you have a bloody nose or you are helping someone else -- is to stay calm.
Step 1
Blow all of the clots that have formed out of your nose and into facial tissues. According to the University of California at San Diego Health Library, this may increase the bleeding at first.
Step 2
Sit down and keep your head facing forward. This will help keep the blood from running down the back of your throat. Swallowing even a small amount of blood can irritate your stomach lining enough to cause vomiting.
Step 3
Pinch the soft part of your nose closed. The experts at Cedars-Sinai recommend pushing the soft part of your nose straight back into your face and keeping the pressure on for at least 5 minutes. The University of California at San Diego Health Library recommends keeping the pressure on for a full 10 minutes, so use your own judgment according to how severe the blood flow is.
Step 4
Apply a cold compress, like ice wrapped in a towel, to your nose and cheeks once the bleeding has stopped. The cold will constrict the blood vessels while they start to clot.
Step 5
Do not blow your nose or put anything inside it for at least 12 hours after the bleeding has stopped. If it starts bleeding again, repeat the pinching for 5 to 10 minutes, until the bleeding stops. Gently apply a saline mist or some petroleum jelly to lubricate the inside of your nose to help prevent more bloody noses.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid hot liquids for the rest of the day, advises Cedars-Sinai, as well as bending over, lifting heavy objects, smoking, blowing your nose or straining when on the toilet. Use a humidifier in dry winter heat or high temperatures to help keep the inside of your nose from drying out.
- See your physician if you cannot stop the bleeding after 20 minutes, or if the blood flow is forceful and you experience weakness or feel faint.
Things You'll Need
- Facial tissues
- Ice
- Clean towel
- Saline mist
- Petroleum jelly
- Humidifier (optional)
