Nosebleed Aftercare: A Step-by-Step Guide to Stop Bleeding

Epistaxis (nosebleed) is usually anterior (Kiesselbach's plexus) and self-limited.

First Aid (Anterior)

1. Sit upright, lean slightly forward (prevents swallowing blood).
2. Pinch soft lower third of nose (both sides) firmly for 10–15 min continuously (clock, not peek).
3. Breathe through mouth.
4. Apply ice pack to nasal bridge/forehead (vasoconstriction).
5. After bleeding stops: avoid nose blowing, straining, hot liquids for 24h.

When to Seek Care

• Bleeding >20 min despite pressure.
• Posterior bleed (profuse, bilateral, posterior pharyngeal trickle).
• Anticoagulant use, bleeding disorder, uncontrolled HTN.
• Recurrent (>1/week) or associated with facial trauma.

Medical Interventions

• Topical vasoconstrictor (oxymetazoline) + pressure.
• Chemical cautery (silver nitrate).
• Electrocautery, nasal packing (rapid rhino, gauze), endoscopic ligation (sphenopalatine artery).

Prevention

• Humidifier, saline gel/spray, avoid digital trauma.
• Control HTN, review anticoagulants.