MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Nosebleed treatment

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Nosebleed treatment

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Information References

Illustrations

Nosebleed

Alternative Names Return to top

Treatment - nosebleed

Information Return to top

To stop a typical nosebleed, sit down and gently squeeze the soft portion of the nose between your thumb and finger (so that the nostrils are closed) for about 5-10 minutes. Lean forward to avoid swallowing the blood and breathe through your mouth. Wait at least 5 minutes before checking if the bleeding has stopped. Almost all nose bleeds can be controlled in this way if sufficient time is allowed for the bleeding to stop.

It may help to apply cold compresses or ice across the bridge of the nose. DO NOT pack the inside of the nose with gauze.

For more information, see nosebleeds.

References Return to top

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2005.

Kucik CJ. Management of epistaxis. Am Fam Physician. 2005; 71(2): 305-311.

Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002.

Update Date: 7/25/2007

Updated by: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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