Nosebleeds: causes and first aid

In short: Nosebleeds are usually harmless and often result from dry mucous membranes, minor injuries, or forceful blowing of the nose. The correct first aid differs significantly from widespread but mistaken ideas.

In more detail: The blood vessels at the front of the nasal septum are particularly thin and prone to injury, which explains most cases of nosebleeds.

Note: Not a substitute for medical advice.

In detail

• Lean the head forward: Contrary to popular belief, the head should be tilted forward, not backward, to avoid swallowing blood.
• Pinch the nostrils: Firm pressure on the soft part of the nose below the nasal bone for about ten minutes usually stops the bleeding effectively.
• Cooling: A cold washcloth or an ice pack on the back of the neck can additionally constrict blood vessels and shorten the bleeding.
• Avoiding dry air: Especially in winter with dry heated air, a humidifier helps keep the nasal mucous membrane moist and resilient.
• Nasal ointment: A moisturising nasal ointment can preventively care for the mucous membrane and reduce further nosebleeds.
• Frequent nosebleeds: Recurring, heavy, or hard-to-stop nosebleeds should be checked by a doctor, since high blood pressure or clotting disorders can also play a role.
• After bleeding: For a few hours after the bleeding stops, avoid forceful nose-blowing and bending over to prevent it from reopening (erste-hilfe-grundlagen, blutdruck-grundlagen).