Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are common especially in children and not usually serious.

Causes of nosebleeds:

The inside of the nose is quite fragile. When this is damaged, nosebleeds can occur.

More serious nosebleeds can be caused by:

Medical conditions affecting blood and how it clots
Medications affecting blood clots – including blood thinning medications such as warfarin and apixaban.
Nose trauma

Nosebleed recovery position:

Sit down if possible

Lean forward to allow blood to drain out of the nose

Pinch nose and breathe through mouth for 10-15 minutes

Try to remain calm – stress can raise blood pressure and higher blood pressure can worsen nosebleeds.

After the nosebleed has stopped

Minimise or avoid:
- Nose picking and blowing
- Hot drinks
- Alcohol
- Pick scabs

Avoid lying down flat for at least 1-2 hours after bleeding has stopped. Especially if it was a heavy

This can reduce the chance of another nosebleed and further complications.

Who is most vulnerable to nosebleeds:

WHEN TO SEEK FURTHER HELP FOR A NOSEBLEED

See a doctor if:

Very young child – under 2 has a nosebleed
Regular nosebleeds – more than once in a week.
Blood disorders such as hemophilia (difficulty with blood clotting) or anaemia (pale skin, coldness and clamminess, sweating)
Taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or apixaban.

Go to the hospital if:

Medical treatment for nosebleeds

If a nosebleed is not treatable at home and is not urgent hospital situation, please see a doctor. They will normally give:
- Gauze to stop bleeding
- Or chemical to stop bleeding
After nosebleed stops, can give antiseptic cream such as Naseptin (chlorhexidine/neomycin) or Neosporin (neomycin, polymixin B, and bacitracin)
These creams stop infection, crusts and scabs forming.
Do NOT use external antiseptic creams such as Savlon or Germolene. These are NOT suited for internal use.
CAN use Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to help soothe nose inside.

SOURCES:

[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nosebleed/

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