Nose Bleed

A nose bleed is most commonly treated at home and usually will clear up on its own. Bloody noses in children and young adults usually originate from the septum just inside the nose. The septum separates the two nasal chambers.

A bloody nose in middle age and older adults usually begins much deeper in the nose interior; they are less common and are usually caused by high blood pressure or hardening of the arteries. They are usually spontaneous and are difficult to stop and require a doctor's help.

• Trauma to the nose.
  
  
• Sinus infections.
  
  
• Sticking objects or probing into the nose.
  
  
• The nose may have abnormal blood vessels.
  
  
• High blood pressure.
  
  
• Inability for the blood to clot because of blood-thinning medications, such as Aspirin or Coumadin.

• Stay calm and relaxed.
  
  
• Sit upright and lean forward to reduce the blood pressure in the veins of the nose. This also inhibits further bleeding.
  
• Do not tilt your head back, this will cause the blood to go down your throat.
  
  
• Breath through your mouth not your nose.
  
  
• Pinch your nose at the soft part just below the bone.
  
  
• Continue to pinch your nose for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Apply a cold pack to the bridge of the nose.

• Prevent any further irritation by trying not to sneeze.
  
  
• Do not blow your nose.
  
  
• Try to relax and not exert yourself for at least 24 hours.
  
  
• Try adding moisture to the air with either a humidifier or vaporizer to keep the nasal passages moist.
  
  
• Do not take any pain relievers such as, Aspirin, or any blood thinning medications.

• Bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes.
  
  
• You become dizzy or disoriented.
  
  
• You recently began a new medication.
  
  
• You've been having reoccurring bloody noses.
  
  
• You have had a severe blow to your face.