Nose and sinus
Nosebleeds
Most nosebleeds come from small vessels near the front of the nose. Steady pressure often stops them. Repeated bleeding needs an examination to find the cause.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
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How to stop a nosebleed
- Sit upright and lean forward, with your mouth open.
- Pinch the soft part just above the nostril openings, below the bony bridge.
- Hold without checking for 10–15 minutes. Breathe through your mouth and spit out blood.
Why nosebleeds happen
Dryness, picking or forceful blowing can damage the delicate lining. Medicines that affect clotting can make a bleed harder to stop. Do not stop prescribed blood thinners yourself.
In older adults, raised blood pressure and a drier, thinner nasal lining are common contributors, and a change in climate or season can make this worse. Nosebleeds are also common in children and are usually not serious, though a bleeding or clotting disorder is sometimes the cause, particularly if bruising or bleeding occurs easily elsewhere too.
When bleeding keeps returning
The doctor checks the nose and your medicines. A visible bleeding point may be sealed with a treatment called cautery. Some bleeds need nasal packing. Persistent bleeding with blockage on one side needs a closer look.
After the bleeding stops
For the next 24 hours, avoid nose picking or blowing, heavy exercise, hot drinks and alcohol. Ask about moisturising treatment if dryness keeps causing bleeding.
A note on your care
“Repeated nosebleeds can leave you waiting anxiously for the next one. Let’s discuss how to handle an episode and what may be making them recur.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
Should I tilt my head back?
No. Lean forward so blood does not collect in your throat.
Does a child with nosebleeds need a check?
Repeated episodes should be assessed. A nosebleed in a child under two also needs medical advice.
Should I stop my blood thinner if my nose bleeds?
Do not stop it yourself. Seek medical advice about the bleeding and tell the clinician exactly what you take.
What is nasal cautery?
It seals a visible bleeding point, often using a chemical applied after numbing the area. It is considered after the source of recurrent bleeding is identified.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .