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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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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

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Reviewed by David M. Walker, MD on November 01, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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