Nosebleed

Definitions

Description

When a person bleeds from the nose.

Self-care

Sit up and lean forward. Gently blow the nose. Pinch the nose shut for 15 to 20 minutes. If the nose keeps bleeding, pinch for 30 more minutes.

When to seek immediate medical care

Seek emergency help if the nosebleed:

  • Lasts for more than 30 minutes.
  • Involves a lot of blood.
  • Makes it hard to breathe.
  • Happens after an accident or getting hurt, such as after a hit to the head.
  • Happens in a child younger than age 2.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a healthcare professional if:

  • The nosebleeds happen often, even if they're easy to stop.