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Nosebleed: Teen Version

What causes nosebleeds?

Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are very common. They are usually caused by dryness of the nasal lining plus the normal rubbing and picking that most people do when the nose becomes blocked or itchy. Vigorous nose blowing can also cause bleeding. People who have nasal allergies are more likely to have nosebleeds because they rub and blow their noses more.

How do I stop the bleeding?

  • Sit up and lean forward so you don't have to swallow the blood. Have a basin available so you can spit out any blood that drains into your throat. Swallowed blood is irritating to the stomach and can cause nausea or vomiting.
  • First blow your nose to free any large clots. Then gently pinch the soft parts of the lower nose between your thumb and forefinger for 10 minutes. During this time, you will have to breathe through your mouth. Don't release the pressure until 10 minutes are up. If the bleeding continues, you may not be pressing on the right spot.
  • If the nosebleed hasn't stopped, insert a gauze covered with petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or water-based jelly (K-Y) into the nostril. Squeeze again for 10 minutes. Leave the gauze in for another 10 minutes before you remove it. If bleeding persists, call your healthcare provider but continue the pressure in the meantime.

Common mistakes in treating nosebleed

  • A cold washcloth applied to the forehead, bridge of the nose, back of the neck, or under the upper lip does not help stop nosebleeds.
  • Pressing on the bony part of the nose does not help stop nosebleeds.

How can I prevent nosebleeds?

  • A small amount of petroleum jelly or K-Y jelly applied twice a day to the center wall inside the nose (the septum) with a cotton swab often helps the area heal.
  • Increasing the humidity in your room at night by using a humidifier may also be helpful.
  • Get into the habit of putting 2 or 3 drops of warm water in each nostril to loosen up the dried mucus before blowing a stuffy nose.
  • Avoid aspirin. One aspirin can increase the tendency of the body to bleed easily for up to a week and can make nosebleeds last much longer.
  • If you have nasal allergies, treating allergic symptoms with antihistamines will help break the itching-bleeding cycle.
  • Don't smoke.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call IMMEDIATELY if:

  • The bleeding does not stop after 30 minutes of direct pressure on the nose.

Call during office hours if:

  • Nosebleeds are a frequent problem even after preventive measures are used.
  • You have other concerns or questions.
Written by Barton D. Schmitt, MD, author of “My Child Is Sick”, American Academy of Pediatrics Books.
Published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2009-06-22
Last reviewed: 2011-06-06
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
© 2011 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
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