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Managing Nosebleeds

A nosebleed often results from bleeding of the tiny blood vessels inside the nose.  Most of the time, it is on the septum, which is the place between the nostrils.  Bleeding can result from very dry air and often becomes worse in the winter.  It can also be caused by sneezing, nose-picking, strong nose blowing, or trauma.  Nosebleeds pose little threat unless the person loses large amounts of blood or are frequent enough to stop work or school.

 

What to Do

 

  • Tilt your head forward so blood will not run down the throat and cause you to have nausea and vomiting.  When your head is forward, you can also tell when bleeding has stopped.  Avoid lying down.  Help young children and babies sit up.

 

  • Firmly pinch the soft part of the nose with a cold compress or your finger.  Keep the pressure on for a full 10 minutes.  Do not look to see if the bleeding has stopped during this time as it may start again.  You may want to read a book with your child or watch TV during this time.

 

  • An ice pack held firmly over the bridge of the nose may help to tighten the blood vessels.

 

  • If you or your child has hemophilia or Von Willebrand Disease, call your doctor.

 

To Prevent Nosebleeds

 

  • Keep nasal membranes moist during the cold, dry weather.  Rub a small amount of Vaseline®into each nostril to avoid crusts that crack and bleed.

 

  • Keep the room humidity higher during the cold months.  Use a cold air humidifier.  This extra moisture in the air keeps nasal membranes and drainage moist.  Saline nose drops may help keep the tissues moist.  It also may reduce nose picking.

 

What You Should Know

 

  • Stay calm.  The nosebleed is most likely not serious.  Try not to upset your child.

 

  • Do not stuff tissues or things in the nose to stop the bleeding.

 

  • If the bleeding has not stopped after 10 minutes, repeat the pressure.  If the bleeding keeps on after your second try, call your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.

 

  • Most nosebleeds are harmless and will stop on their own.  If you or your child has severe nosebleeds or nosebleeds that happen often, or bleeding from both nostrils, you or your child should be checked by your doctor.  You may even need to see an ear-nose-throat doctor.

 

  • Do not use nose drops or nasal sprays to treat the nosebleed.

 

When to Call the Doctor

 

  • If you or your child is pale or sweaty.

 

  • If you or your child is bleeding from the mouth or vomiting blood or brown vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

 

  • If the nosebleed lasts longer than normal or won’t stop.

 

  • If the nosebleed was caused by a head or facial injury, especially if you have a bleeding disorder.

 

  • If you suspect an infection.

 

  • If you have any questions or concerns about caring for nosebleeds.

 

Phone numbers:

 

UWHC_________________Clinic

 

Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30 phone  _________________

 

Nights and Weekends: 608-262-0486, ask for __________________doctor on call.

 

If you live out of the area, 1-800-323-8942 and ask for the _______________ clinic.

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6628.



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 09/12/2007

Copyright © 08/04/2005 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5019

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