Description

Nosebleed Nightmare? Tame the Torrent with Quick & Proven Fixes

Few things are more alarming than a sudden gush of blood from your nose. But nosebleeds are usually harmless and easy to treat. Learning what causes them, when to worry, and how to stop bleeding can keep you calm and informed when faced with this bloody nuisance.

What Triggers Nosebleeds?

The nasal membranes are full of delicate blood vessels that are prone to drying out. Picking or blowing the nose forcefully can rupture these vessels and start a nosebleed. Common causes include:

• Dry indoor air, especially during winter
• Strenuous exercise that elevates blood pressure
• Injury to the nose, like a punch or fall
• Allergies or upper respiratory infections with chronic nose blowing
• Medications that interfere with blood clotting like aspirin or warfarin
• Cocaine use, which constricts nasal blood vessels

Rarely, frequent nosebleeds indicate an underlying disorder like cancer, autoimmune disease, or abnormal blood vessels. See your doctor if they happen more than once a week.

Stopping a Nosebleed

Stay calm first! Then follow these steps:

1. Sit upright and lean forward. Don’t lie down or tilt the head back.
2. Firmly pinch the soft part of the nose shut. Hold for 5-10 minutes.
3. Apply an ice pack across the nose bridge to constrict blood vessels.
4. Spit out any blood draining into the throat instead of swallowing it.
5. If bleeding persists, roll up a piece of gauze and pack the nostril lightly to apply pressure.
6. Call your doctor if bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes or happens frequently.

Preventing Recurrence

Once bleeding stops, avoid picking, blowing, or traumatizing the nose for several days to prevent restarting. Try these measures to prevent frequent nosebleeds:

• Use a humidifier during winter months to keep nasal passages moist.
• Apply petroleum jelly or nasal saline gel inside the nostrils.
• Take a break from any blood-thinning medications like aspirin if approved by your doctor.
• Have your doctor cauterize vessels that tend to bleed often.
• Get regular checkups to rule out any underlying condition.

Knowing what to do during a surprise nosebleed keeps this alarming but common problem under control. Stay alert for signs of an underlying health issue if they become frequent.