Please call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Nosebleeds Treatment
1. Stop the Bleeding
Have the person sit up straight and lean forward slightly. Don't have the person lie down or tilt the head backward.
With thumb and index finger, firmly pinch the nose just below the bone up against the face.
Apply pressure for 5 minutes. Time yourself with a clock.
If bleeding continues after 5 minutes, repeat the process.
2. Call a Health Care Provider
See a health care provider immediately if:
Nosebleed doesn't stop after 10 minutes of home treatment.
The person is taking blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin, or has a bleeding disorder
Nosebleed happens after a severe head injury or a blow to the face.
3. Medical Treatment
The health care provider may use specialized cotton material, insert a balloon in the nose, or use a special electrical tool to cauterize the blood vessels.
4. Follow Up
Broken noses often are not fixed immediately. The health care provider will refer the person to a specialist for a consultation once the swelling goes down.
The person should avoid strenuous activity; bending over; and blowing, rubbing or picking the nose until it heals.
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES:
Seattle Children's Hospital: "Nosebleed."
Cleveland Clinic: "Nosebleed (Epistaxis)."
Family Doctor: "Nosebleeds."
American Family Physician: "Information From Your Family Doctor: Nosebleeds."