Nose Bleeds

1. Stop the Bleeding

   

• Have the person sit up straight and lean forward slightly. Don’t have the person lie down or tilt the head backward.
• With thumb and index finger, firmly pinch the nose just below the bone up against the face.
• Apply pressure for 5 minutes. Time yourself with a clock.
• If bleeding continues after 5 minutes, repeat the process.

2. Call a Health Care Provider

See a health care provider immediately if:

• Nosebleed doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of home treatment
• The person is taking blood thinners, such as warfarin or aspirin, or has a bleeding disorder
• Nosebleed happens after a severe head injury or a blow to the face

3. Medical Treatment

• The health care provider may use specialized cotton material, insert a balloon in the nose, or use a special electrical tool to cauterize the blood vessels.

4. Follow Up

• Broken noses often are not fixed immediately. The health care provider will refer the person to a specialist for a consultation once the swelling goes down.
• The person should avoid strenuous activity; bending over; and blowing, rubbing or picking the nose until it heals.