How to Stop a Nosebleed?
A nose bleed is also known as epistaxis. The bleeding mostly occurs through one nostril, but two nostrils may also be involved. Nosebleed is not serious in most cases and can be treated easily. The nosebleed usually stops within 10 to 20 minutes of treatment.
What causes of Nosebleed:
- Hot or dry air can dry out the nasal membranes and result in bleeding.
- Picking the nose can also result in bleeding
- Frequent colds
How to Stop a Nose bleed?
Here are the steps to stop a nose bleed:
- Sit upright. This will lower the blood pressure in the veins of the nose and control the bleeding
- Lean slightly forward. This will prevent the blood from dripping at the back of the throat. If the blood runs at the back of the throat, you are more likely to swallow which can in turn cause irritation
- If you suspect blood clots inside your nose, clear them by blowing your nose
- Pinch your nose shut using your thumb and index fingers. Breathe through your mouth during this time.
- Apply an ice pack to your nose while still pinching the nose. The ice pack will help in constricting the blood vessels and can stop the bleeding
- Pinch for full 10 minutes. This action will enable the blood to flow back to the nasal septum and stop the bleeding
- After 10 minutes, check if the bleeding has stopped. If the bleeding has not stopped, continue to hold your nose for 10 more minutes. Most nosebleeds will stop in 10 to 15 minutes
- If your nosebleed has stopped, avoid straining yourself by lifting objects immediately. Keep your head upright or elevated. Also, do not pick your nose
- Apply a moisturizer inside your nose using your finger tip. This can also have a cooling effect immediately after the bleeding stops
If the nosebleed does not stop after 20 minutes, consult your doctor.
Nosebleed is common and rarely there is a serious underlying health problem which causes it. If the nosebleeds are frequent, your doctor may suggest cautery, which is a treatment to seal blood vessels which cause bleeding.