What to do in case of bleeding from the nose

To stop bleeding from the nose, compress the nostril with a handkerchief or apply ice, breathe through the mouth and keep the head in a neutral or slightly forward position. However, when the bleeding does not resolve at the end of 30 minutes, it may be necessary to go to the emergency room, so that the doctor can perform some procedure that controls the outflow of blood, such as cauterization of the vein, for example.

Bleeding from the nose, scientifically called epistaxis, is the outflow of blood through the nose and, normally, it is not a serious situation, which can occur when poking the nose, when blowing the nose very hard or after a blow to the face, for example. However, this type of bleeding can also indicate changes in blood clotting, so it is important to see a doctor whenever it occurs in an intense or repetitive way.

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How to stop bleeding from the nose

To stop nosebleeds, you should start by keeping calm and taking a handkerchief, and you should:

1. Sit and lean your head slightly forward; Pinch the nostril that is bleeding for at least 10 minutes: you can push the nostril against the septum with your index finger or pinch your nose with your thumb and index finger; Relieve the pressure and check if you stopped bleeding after 10 minutes; Clean the nose and, if necessary, the mouth, with a wet swab or cloth. When cleaning the nose, you should not apply force, being able to wrap a handkerchief and clean only the nostril entrance.

If the bleeding is very heavy, blood can flow out of the mouth, which is normal.

In addition, if after compression continues to bleed through the nose, ice should be applied to the nostril that is bleeding, wrapping it in a cloth or compress. The application of ice helps to stop the bleeding, because the cold causes the blood vessels to compress, decreasing the amount of blood and stopping the bleeding.

Understand these tips better in the following video:

What not to do when bleeding from the nose

When bleeding from the nose, you should not:

• Lay your head back or lie down, as the pressure in the veins decreases and the bleeding increases; Insert cotton swabs in the nose, as it can cause trauma; Put hot water in the nose;

  Blow your nose for at least 4 hours after your nose bleeds.

These measures should not be taken, as it exacerbates bleeding from the nose and does not aid in healing.

When to go to the doctor

It is recommended to go to the emergency room or consult a doctor when:

• Bleeding does not stop at the end of 20-30 minutes; Bleeding occurs through the nose accompanied by headache and dizziness; Bleeding occurs through the nose at the same time as bleeding in the eyes and ears; Bleeding occurs after a car accident; Uses anticoagulants, such as Warfarin or Aspirin.

Bleeding from the nose is generally not a serious condition and can rarely lead to more serious problems. However, in these cases, you must call an ambulance, calling 192, or go immediately to the emergency room.