Nose bleeds
What they are, what to avoid and how to treat them.
A nose bleed is commonly caused by:
- Infection
- Trauma, including nose picking
- High blood pressure
- Anticoagulation
- No known reason
To prevent further bleeds, gradually resume your normal energetic activities over a period of two weeks.
Do not blow your nose for about one week or pick your nose
If you need to bend down, keep your back straight and bend your knees.
Avoid:
-
Smoking or smoky atmospheres
- Crowded places
If you have been given any tablets or nose creams use them as instructed
First Aid Treatment for Nose Bleeds
1 Sit forward
2 Breath through your mouth
3 Pinch the fleshy area of your nose tightly for 10-15 minutes (time it by the clock)
4 If blood enters your mouth, spit it out into a cloth or tissue – try not to swallow it
5 Ice may be applied to the bridge of your nose
6 Release your fingers from pinching the fleshy area after 10-15 minutes
If your nose still bleeds, repeat from 1 to 6 again.
Prolonged Nose Bleeds
After a further 10-15 minutes, if the bleeding still persists, contact your nearest Minor Injuries unit if you have one, or an A & E Department.
If you are taking warfarin, go straight to the A & E Department
