Most nosebleeds aren't serious. They usually can be stopped with home treatment. Most nosebleeds occur in the front of the nose and involve only one nostril. Some blood may drain down the back of the nose into the throat.
A less common but more serious type of nosebleed starts in the back of the nose. It often involves both nostrils. Large amounts of blood may run down the back of the throat. You will need treatment from a doctor to control bleeding from this type of nosebleed.
How can you care for nosebleeds?
If you get another nosebleed:
- Gently blow your nose to clear any clots.
- Sit up and tilt your head slightly forward. This keeps blood from going down your throat.
- Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the front, soft part of your nose shut for at least 15 minutes. Use a clock. Do not check to see if the bleeding has stopped before the 15 minutes are up. If the bleeding has not stopped, pinch your nose shut for another 10 to 15 minutes. Using a nasal decongestant spray such as oxymetazoline (Afrin) before pinching your nose can also help to stop the bleeding. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
When the bleeding has stopped, try not to pick, rub, or blow your nose for several hours. Avoiding these things helps keep your nose from bleeding again.
To prevent nosebleeds:
- Do not blow your nose too hard.
- Try not to lift or strain after a nosebleed.
- Raise your head on a pillow while you sleep.
- Put a thin layer of a saline- or water-based nasal gel, such as NasoGel, inside your nose. Put it on the septum, which divides your nostrils. This will prevent dryness that can cause nosebleeds.
- Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to your bedroom. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine.
- Do not use aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) for 36 to 48 hours after a nosebleed unless your doctor tells you to. You can use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief.
- Talk to your doctor about stopping any other medicines you are taking. Some medicines may make you more likely to get a nosebleed.
- Do not use cold medicines or nasal sprays without first talking to your doctor. They can make your nose dry.
- Do not snort tobacco, drugs, or any other drying substances up your nose.
