NOSEBLEED

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

Care Advice for Nosebleed

  1. Sit up and lean forward, to keep the blood from running down the back of your throat.
  2. Apply Pressure: Gently squeeze the lower soft parts of the nose against the center wall for 15 minutes. (Goal: apply continuous pressure to the bleeding point.) Use your thumb and your index finger in a pinching manner. If the bleeding continues, move your point of pressure and repeat again for another 15 minutes.

 

Symptom Definition

  • Bleeding from 1 or both nostrils

General Information

  • Most nosebleeds (90%) originate from the front part of the nose (anterior nasal septum). Thus, most nosebleeds will stop when pressure is correctly applied over the bleeding area. The correct method is to squeeze the soft parts of the nose using thumb and index finger, thus applying pressure inside of the nose. Hold for 10-15 minutes.
  • Leading causative factors for nosebleeds include upper respiratory infections (colds) and nose picking. There is a higher incidence of nosebleeds in the 60-80 year old age group. Individuals in this age group often have a couple of causative factors for bleeding. A typical elderly adult with a nosebleed might be 72, have high blood pressure, and be exposed to dry winter air.
  • Causative factors:
    • Environmental - Environmental factors include temperature and dryness of the air.
    • Local - Local factors include upper respiratory infections (colds), nasal drug inhalation, nasal tumors, nasal septal deviation, too vigorous nose blowing, and nose picking.
    • Systemic - Systemic factors include high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, and bleeding problems.
    • Medications - Certain medications can increase bleeding: aspirin, ibuprofen/Motrin, heparin, and coumadin.

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Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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