First Aid for Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, occur when the delicate blood vessels inside your nose break and bleed. These vessels are close to the surface and can rupture easily. Common triggers include dry air, nose-picking, blowing the nose too hard, seasonal allergies, infections, and trauma.

Though often minor and self-limiting, nosebleeds can sometimes signal a more serious issue, particularly in people on blood-thinning medications. In most cases, nosebleeds are not dangerous. However, recognizing when a nosebleed needs medical care is essential, especially when bleeding is heavy or prolonged.

What Is a Nosebleed?

A nosebleed happens when the tiny capillaries inside the nasal passages rupture. This often occurs in the front part of the nose (anterior nosebleeds), which is more vulnerable due to dry air, allergies, or irritation. Less commonly, bleeding originates deeper inside the nose (posterior nosebleeds), which may be more difficult to control.

Common Causes of Nosebleeds

Cause	Description
Dry air	Dries out nasal membranes, causing cracks and bleeding.
Nose-picking	Direct trauma to fragile vessels.
Blowing nose too hard	Pressure rupture, especially during colds or allergies.
Seasonal allergies	Inflammation and irritation from allergens.
Infections	Sinus or respiratory infections that inflame nasal tissues.
Facial trauma	Injuries that damage blood vessels or nasal bones.
Blood thinners	Medications that reduce clotting ability.

Recognizing the Symptoms

A typical nosebleed causes blood to flow from one nostril. In some cases, it may appear in both. You might also experience:

Blood dripping from the nose or down the throat.
A salty or metallic taste.
Mild pressure or fullness in the nasal passages.
Nausea (from swallowing blood).

Bleeding usually lasts a few minutes but can be prolonged if clotting is impaired or if first aid steps are not followed properly.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Call emergency services or go to the ER if:

The bleeding lasts longer than 30 minutes despite applying pressure.
Bleeding is heavy or causes lightheadedness, weakness, or fainting.
The nosebleed follows a head injury or facial trauma.
Blood is flowing down the throat persistently, causing gagging or vomiting.
You vomit blood.
You take blood thinners or have a known bleeding disorder.

These signs may indicate significant blood loss or a medical emergency.

Follow these steps to manage a nosebleed at home:

Sit upright and lean slightly forward. This position helps reduce pressure in the nose and prevents blood from being swallowed.
Gently blow your nose once to clear out clots, if present.
Pinch your nostrils closed using your thumb and index finger. Apply steady pressure for 10–15 minutes without checking early.
Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose. Cold helps constrict blood vessels.
Repeat pressure for another 10–15 minutes if the bleeding doesn’t stop the first time.

If bleeding still doesn’t stop, seek medical help.

What You Can Do at Home to Prevent Recurrence

After the bleeding stops:

Avoid nose-picking or blowing your nose for at least 12 hours.
Refrain from bending over or lifting heavy objects.
Apply petroleum jelly or saline gel inside the nostrils to keep tissues moist.
Use a humidifier during dry seasons or when indoor heating is on.
Avoid cigarette smoke, strong odors, or chemical irritants.

These steps can help reduce irritation and rebleeding risk.

Monitoring for Complications

While most nosebleeds are minor, monitor for signs of underlying issues:

Bleeding from both nostrils at once
Recurrent nosebleeds (more than once a week)
Unexplained bruising or bleeding elsewhere on the body
High blood pressure that’s difficult to control
Symptoms of anemia (fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath)

These may require further evaluation from your provider.

Treatment Options and Medications

If bleeding is frequent or doesn’t respond to home care, a healthcare provider may recommend:

Decongestant nasal sprays to constrict blood vessels—use only as directed and not for more than a few days.
Nasal cauterization with silver nitrate or heat to seal the bleeding site.
Nasal packing with gauze or an inflatable balloon device to apply internal pressure.
Medication adjustments if you’re on blood thinners.

These treatments are typically done in a medical setting and can reduce the chance of recurrence.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Make an appointment if:

Nosebleeds happen frequently or interfere with sleep or daily activities.
Your child has repeated nosebleeds linked to allergies or nasal structure issues.
You notice abnormal growths or damage in the nasal passages.
You take anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs and have frequent bleeding.

A doctor may investigate underlying conditions, adjust medications, or refer you to an ENT specialist.

Prevention Tips

To help prevent future nosebleeds:

Use saline nasal sprays or gels daily, especially in dry environments.
Run a humidifier during winter or in air-conditioned spaces.
Treat allergies or sinus conditions with appropriate medications.
Wear protective gear during contact sports.
Manage high blood pressure and other chronic health conditions.

With the right care and preventive habits, most nosebleeds can be safely managed and minimized.