Sit upright and lean forward. By remaining upright, I reduce blood pressure in the veins of my nose. This discourages further bleeding. Sitting forward will help me avoid swallowing blood, which can irritate my stomach.
Pinch my nose. I will use my thumb and index finger to pinch my nostrils shut. Breathe through my mouth. Continue to pinch for five to 10 minutes. Pinching sends pressure to the bleeding point on the nasal septum and often stops the flow of blood.
To prevent re-bleeding. I will not pick or blow my nose and I will not bend down for several hours after the bleeding episode. During this time remember to keep my head higher than the level of my heart.
If re-bleeding occurs. Blow out forcefully to clear my nose of blood clots and spray both sides of my nose with a decongestant nasal spray containing oxymetazoline (Afrin, Mucinex Moisture Smart, others). Pinch my nose again as described above and I will call my doctor.
I will seek medical care immediately if ,
The bleeding lasts for more than 20 minutes.
The nosebleed follows an accident, a fall or an injury to my head, including a punch in the face that may have broken my nos.
I will contact my doctor if I experience frequent nosebleeds. I may need a blood vessel cauterized. Cautery is a technique in which the blood vessel is burned with electric current, silver nitrate or a laser. My doctor may pack my nose with special gauze or an inflatable latex balloon to put pressure on the blood vessel and stop the bleeding.
I am experiencing nasal bleeding and am taking blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin). My doctor may advise adjusting my medication dosage.
Using supplemental oxygen administered with a nasal tube (cannula) may increase my risk of nosebleeds. Apply a water-based lubricant to my nostrils and increase the humidity in my home to help relieve nasal bleeding.
