NOSEBLEED

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR NOSEBLEED

  1. Apply Pressure:  Gently squeeze the lower soft parts of the nose against the center wall for 10 minutes.  This should apply continuous pressure to the bleeding point.  Have your child lean forward and spit out any blood.
  2. Decongestant Nose Drops:  If this fails, insert a gauze wet with decongestant nose drops (e.g. nonprescription Afrin).  If not available, use petroleum jelly. (Reason: the gauze helps to apply pressure and nose drops shrink the blood vessels).  Repeat the process of gently squeezing the nose for 10 minutes.
  3. Prevent Recurrent Nosebleeds:
    • If the air is dry, use a humidifier to keep the nose from drying out.
    • Apply petroleum jelly to the center wall of the nose twice a day to promote healing.
  4. Expected Course:  Over 99% of nosebleeds will stop following 10 minutes of direct pressure if the parent is pressing on the right spot.  After swallowing blood from a nosebleed, your child may vomit a little blood or pass a dark stool tomorrow.
  5. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Unable to stop bleeding with 20 minutes of direct pressure.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

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.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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