To stop a bloody nose, follow these expert-recommended steps:
- Stay calm to avoid increasing blood flow from nervousness.
- Sit up straight and lean slightly forward to prevent blood from flowing down your throat, which can cause nausea or choking.
- Gently blow your nose to clear any clots if needed.
- Pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bony bridge) firmly using your thumb and index finger.
- Maintain the pressure continuously for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing it to check if the bleeding has stopped. Breathe through your mouth during this time.
- If bleeding continues after the first attempt, repeat the pinching for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- Avoid tilting your head back or lying down, as this can cause blood to run down your throat.
- After bleeding stops, do not blow or pick your nose for at least two days to allow healing.
- Optionally, apply a decongestant nasal spray (like Afrin) to the bleeding nostril before pinching to help constrict blood vessels.
- Use a cool mist humidifier or nasal saline spray regularly to keep nasal passages moist and help prevent future nosebleeds.
When to seek medical help:
- If bleeding lasts longer than 20-30 minutes despite applying pressure
- If bleeding is very heavy or you are having difficulty breathing
- If nosebleeds occur frequently or if you are on blood-thinning medication
- If bleeding is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain or light-headedness
These steps effectively stop most nosebleeds and are recommended by multiple health sources including Michigan Medicine, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, and University of Michigan Health
