Nosebleed - injury

Alternative names:

bleeding - nose; blood loss - nose

First aid:

1. Calm and reassure the victim. Encourage breathing through the mouth.
   
   
2. Have the victim sit down and lean forward slightly. This will help keep blood from going down the back of their throat. Do not have them tip their head backward.
   
   
3. Check to see if there is an object in the victim's nose and remove it if necessary.
   
   
4. Pinch the soft part of the nose firmly for 5 to 10 minutes without releasing. Place a cold compress on the bridge of the nose.
   
   
5. Release the nostrils slowly and avoid touching or blowing the nose.
   
   
6. If bleeding has not stopped after 20 minutes, repeat this procedure one more time. If the nose is still bleeding after a second attempt, seek medical attention.
   
   
7. If medical attention is required, the doctor is likely to pack the affected nostril with gauze in order to apply pressure to the ruptured blood vessel. Cauterization (the application of a heated instrument or caustic chemical to tissue to stop bleeding) may be required if bleeding persists or recurs.
   
   Note: Ice applied to the nose or the neck has not been proven to help stop nosebleeds but causes no harm.

Do not:

DO NOT lie down with a nose bleed and avoid sniffing or blowing the nose for several hours after a nosebleed.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

• Bleeding persists after 15 to 20 minutes of treatment, nosebleeds recur, or blood persistently drains down the throat.
• A neck or serious head injury is suspected.

Update Date: 10/08/99

Updated by: adam.com editorial