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Nosebleed

Overview

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Nosebleeds can have many possible causes including picking your nose, blowing your nose too hard, and an injury such as a broken nose.

If you have a nosebleed, sit down and lean forward with your head tilted forward. Pinch your nose just above your nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes.

A doctor may stop severe nose bleeding by using a stick with a chemical on it, or packing your nose with ribbon gauze or sponge.

To avoid having another nosebleed, try not to blow or pick your nose, drink hot drinks or alcohol, or do any strenuous activity for 24 hours.

Nosebleeds are not usually a sign of anything serious. They're common, particularly in children, and most can be easily treated at home.

Page last reviewed: 05/12/2023
Next review due: 05/12/2026