How Do You Treat a Bloody Nose?

Most of us have suffered a nose bleed at some point in our life, and many have often wondered “what is the reason?”

Our noses contain many blood vessels that help warm and humidify the air we breathe. These vessels are easily damaged or injured because they lie on the interior surface of our nose. When they get injured, the result is often a bloody nose.

Thankfully, in most instances, nosebleeds aren’t serious and they can be treated quickly and easily at home. When one occurs, you should follow these simple tips:

• Remain calm – Getting nervous can actually make you bleed more
• Sit upright – You nose will stop bleeding quicker if you keep your head above your heart
• Lean forward. This will prevent blood from draining down the back of your throat
• Pinch your nostrils closed. Press your thumb and index finger over your nostrils for approximately 10 minutes and breathe through your mouth. The pressure will make the blood stop flowing.

Once the bleeding has stopped, do not touch or blow your nose as it may start to bleed again. If it does, blow your nose to get rid of any blood clots. You can also spray a nasal decongestant in your nostrils and pinch them closed again.

Although you can’t always prevent a nosebleed, there are some things you can do to reduce the chances of getting one, such as:

• Keep your nose moist – Dryness can cause nosebleeds. Swab a thin layer petroleum jelly inside your nostrils three times a day, including before going to bed.
• Use saline spray – Spraying saline in your nostrils helps keep the inside of your nose moist.
• Use a humidifier – Especially during the winter when the air is most dry
• Don’t smoke – This can irritate the inside of your nose and dry it out.
• Don’t agitate your nose – Placing your fingers inside your nose to scratch or pick it . Also avoid blowing your nose too hard as these actions can damage the blood vessels.
• Avoid cold and allergy medications – They can dry out your nose. In some cases, certain medications can cause or intensify nosebleeds.

While the majority of nosebleeds are not cause for concern, you should see your doctor if the following take place:

• The bleeding goes on for more than 20 minutes.
• The bleeding was caused by an injury, such as a fall or something hitting your face.
• You get nosebleeds often