Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds, medically known as epistaxis, are a common and often harmless occurrence. They are usually caused by dry air, nose picking, or a minor injury to the fragile blood vessels in the front of the nose. Knowing the right steps to take can quickly stop the bleeding and prevent it from recurring.

Visit the Emergency Department if you have any of the following:

• Bleeding that does not stop after 30 minutes of continuous pressure.
• The bleeding is very heavy, and you feel breathless, weak, dizzy, or faint, which are signs of significant blood loss.
• Nosebleed that started after a blow to the head or face, with a possible skull or facial fracture.

Visit the GP or Polyclinic if you have any of the following:

• Recurrent nosebleeds.
• You are taking blood-thinning medication.
• You have a known blood clotting disorder.
• Unexplained or frequent bruising over your body.

What you can do:

• Stay Calm: While a nosebleed can be alarming, staying calm can help lower your blood pressure and slow the bleeding.
• Sit Up and Lean Forward: The most important step is to sit up straight and lean your body and head slightly forward. This prevents blood from running down the back of your throat, which can cause nausea, vomiting, or choking. Do not tilt your head back.
• Pinch Your Nostrils Shut: Use your thumb and index finger to firmly pinch the soft, fleshy part of your nose, just below the bony bridge. Breathe through your mouth.
• Hold for 10-15 Minutes: Maintain continuous pressure for a full 10 to 15 minutes to allow a clot to form over the bleeding point. Avoid blowing of nose or rubbing inside the nose, as this can disrupt existing clots and cause the bleeding to restart.
• Use a Cold Compress: You can also apply a cold pack or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the bridge of your nose. This can help constrict the blood vessels and slow the bleeding. 

Once the bleeding has stopped, the subsequent few simple steps can help prevent another nosebleed.

• Moisturize the Nostrils: Dry nasal passages are a leading cause of nosebleeds. Use a nasal saline spray, an over-the-counter nasal gel, or a petroleum jelly-based product (like Vaseline) to keep the inside of your nose moist, especially during dry seasons or at high altitude
• Use a Humidifier: Running a humidifier in your bedroom at night can help add moisture to the air and prevent your nasal passages from drying out.
• Avoid Nose Picking: This can damage the delicate blood vessels in the nose.
• Be Gentle: Avoid forceful nose blowing. If you need to blow your nose, do so gently, one nostril at a time.
• Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of things that can dry out your nose, such as cigarette smoke and chemical fumes.

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