How To Stop Nosebleeds

We've all heard conflicting advice about bloody noses. Are you supposed to tilt your head forward or backwards? Use ice or pinch your nose? And is it normal for your nose to just keep bleeding? Many things can cause nosebleeds, such as dry air, altitude, and injury. Follow these simple steps whenever you (or your child) has a nosebleed!

1. Lean forward slightly. Leaning back when you have a nosebleed can cause blood to go down your throat and into your stomach (yuck!) or, even worse, your lungs.
2. Pinch your nose. Pinch right below the bridge of your nose, where the bone and cartilage come together. You may have to pinch your nose for up to 15 or 20 minutes in some cases.
3. Use ice. Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables against the bridge of your nose.
4. Use tissue. It's not going to make you fashionable, but sticking some tissue up your nose can stop the mess – although it will not stop the nosebleed.
5. Be patient. Nosebleeds can last for quite a while – don't worry unless it's been over 20 minutes of continuous bleeding.
6. Prevent nosebleeds in dry conditions. Especially during the winter, dry air can cause nosebleeds. This can be prevented by rubbing a little Vaseline or other lubricating ointment inside the nose.
7. Don't blow your nose. Blowing when you have a bloody nose can cause rebleeding.
8. See your doctor if your nosebleeds are frequent. Although an occasional bloody nose is normal, if you are constantly suffering from them, or if your child is, you should visit your doctor to make sure that there are no dangerous contributing factors.

Although noses can bleed a lot and for long periods of time, nosebleeds are not usually something to be worried about. Keep track of what conditions you are under when you get them, as this can help you prevent them in the future!