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Nosebleeds, also called epistaxis (ep-ih-STAK-sis), are common. They happen when tender blood vessels in the nose break. Common causes can include changes of season, allergies, dryness, scratching, some medicines and injuries. People on blood thinning medication may have worse nosebleeds than others.
Major Emergencies
Seek medical attention and call 9-1-1 if the nosebleed has a significantly greater than expected amount of blood, last longer than 30 minutes without slowing or stopping, the victim feels faint or lightheaded, or the nosebleed follows or is the result of a fall or accident. Bleeding after a fall or injury to the head or face may indicate a broken nose or worse.
If it is suspected that the victim has suffered head, neck or back injuries DO NOT attempt to control the blood flow as they may cause increased pressure on injured tissue. All uncontrolled nosebleeds require prompt medical attention!
Treatment
The victim should sit up and lean forward. Keep the head up. Lean forward so the blood doesn’t go down the throat. This could cause choking, an upset stomach, and nausea.
Have the victim very gently blow their nose – this will clear any blood clots.
Pinch the nose. Use the thumb and a finger to pinch both nostrils shut. The victim should breathe through the mouth during this time. Keep pinching for 10 to 15 minutes. Pinching puts pressure on the blood vessels and helps stop the blood flow.
If the bleeding doesn’t stop, pinch the nose again for up to 15 minutes. Don’t let go for at least five minutes even to check if the bleeding has stopped. Seek emergency care if the bleeding doesn’t stop after the second try.
Don’t pick or blow the nose. And don’t drop the head below the heart or lift anything heavy for many hours. Gently put a saline gel (Ayr), antibiotic ointment (Neosporin) or petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the inside of the nose. Put most of the salve on the middle part of the nose, also called the septum. Steam, humidifiers or an ice pack across the bridge of the nose also may help.