Discharge information after Nosebleeds (Epistaxis)

Who is this information for?

This information is for patients, families and carers following a nosebleed (epistaxis).

What is thefirst aid for a nosebleed?

With the right first aid, most nosebleeds will stop on their own.

  • DO: Gently blow your nose to get rid ofSome of the clots that have formed inside your nostrils.
  • DO: Sit up and lean forward.
  • DO: Breath through the mouth, allowing the blood to run out (or spit it out) without swallowing it
  • DO: Squeeze the soft portion of the nose firmly using your thumb and forefinger.
    • DON’T: grip the bony bridge of your nose
  • DO: Maintain this pressure for:
    • 10-15 minutes(adults)
    • 5 minutes (children)
    • DON’T: release the pressure every so often to check whether the bleeding has stopped.
  • DO: Suck on someice cubes +/-place an ice-pack to the bridge of the nose.
    • Not only is this relieving, but it can help the blood vessels constrict and slow the bleeding.
    • This step is not necessary, but many people like to do it.
  • DO: Rest quietly.
  • DO: follow all the steps outlined above, and if your nose continues to bleed, repeat all the steps once more, applying pressure for a total of at least 30 minutes.

How do I manage normal activities after a nosebleed?

  • Rest quietly for the next 12-24 hours.
  • Do not pick or blow your nose for a week. You can sniff to clear your nose if necessary.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, straining or lifting heavy items for a week.
  • Allow food and drinks to cool before eating for a week.
  • Use lukewarm water for showers or baths for a week.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol.
  • Use paracetamol/Panadeine® for pain relief and avoid aspirin.
  • If prescribed aspirin®, or other blood thinners (e.g. Warfarin®, Plavix®, Xarelto®, Pradaxa®)discuss this with your health practitioner.
  • Use medications as prescribed. Some people with dry skin in their nose may find that ointment or nasal sprays may help.
  • If you suffer from nose bleeds due to high blood pressure, visit your health practitioner for monitoring.

What should I expect?

  • Nosebleeds may cause minor discomfort.
  • Some people may have several nosebleeds over a period of a few days or weeks.
  • In the elderly, nosebleeds can come from the back of the nose.
  • Sometimes the bleeding is due to an underlying bleeding problem

How can I prevent nosebleeds?

Measures to prevent nosebleeds may include:

  • Using a humidifier.
  • Drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Using an ointment on the affected area (such as Vaseline®, FESS® Nasal Gel).
  • Using a saline nasal spray.
  • Avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
  • Using headgear when playing sport.
  • Avoiding cigarette smoke.

Concerns or questions?

You can contact your ENT Specialist at the Melbourne ENT Group (MEG):

Your GP is also the best contact for ongoing care and concerns.

Download PDF