🩸 How to Stop a Nosebleed

Nosebleeds can look dramatic, but they’re usually not serious and can often be treated safely at home. Here’s what to do if you, or someone else, suddenly starts bleeding from the nose.

Step-by-Step: How to Stop a Nosebleed

1. Sit down and lean forward slightly
   Tilting forward helps the blood drain out through the nose rather than back into the throat, which can cause coughing or vomiting.

2. Pinch the soft part of your nose
   Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the soft area just below the bony bridge. Keep firm, continuous pressure for 10 minutes — resist the urge to check if it’s stopped early.

3. Breathe through your mouth
   Stay calm and keep pressure steady. Use a tissue or cloth to catch drips but don’t pack anything inside the nostrils.

4. Apply a cold compress to the nose and cheeks
   Cooling the area can help narrow blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

5. After it stops, rest quietly
   Avoid bending over, blowing your nose, or strenuous activity for several hours — this could restart the bleeding.

When to Seek Medical Help

Go to A&E or call 999 if:

• The bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes

• The person feels faint, weak, or short of breath

• The bleeding followed a head injury

• The person is on blood-thinning medication

• The nosebleed occurs in a young child under 2 years old

Common Causes of Nosebleeds

• Dry or irritated nasal passages

• Picking or blowing the nose too hard

• Allergies or colds

• Warm, dry indoor air

• Injury to the nose

• High blood pressure or certain medications

Quick Tips to Prevent Future Nosebleeds

• Keep the inside of your nose moist using saline spray or a dab of petroleum jelly.

• Use a humidifier in dry rooms.

• Avoid picking or forcefully blowing your nose.

• Wear protective equipment for sports or high-risk work.

Learn More with DAC Education

Knowing what to do in moments like this can make all the difference. Our First Aid courses teach practical skills for treating bleeding, injuries, and other common emergencies — giving you confidence to act when it matters most.

👉 View our upcoming First Aid Courses
(Delivered at our Suffolk HQ or on-site for groups of six or more.)

Disclaimer

This guide offers general first aid advice. Always seek professional medical help if you’re unsure or if the bleeding does not stop.