To stop a nosebleed at home, follow these effective first-aid steps:
- Sit upright and lean slightly forward. This reduces blood pressure in the nose veins and prevents blood from flowing down the throat, which can cause nausea or vomiting
- Pinch your nostrils shut. Use your thumb and index finger to firmly pinch the soft part of your nose just below the bony bridge. Breathe through your mouth while doing this
. Maintain the pressure continuously for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing to check if bleeding has stopped, as early release can restart bleeding
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack. Place it on the bridge of your nose or the back of your neck to constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding
- After bleeding stops, avoid blowing or picking your nose and keep your head elevated to prevent re-bleeding
Additional home remedies that may help include:
- Using a saline nasal spray or applying petroleum jelly inside the nostrils to keep the nasal lining moist and prevent dryness-related bleeding
- Apple cider vinegar applied with a cotton ball inside the nostril may constrict blood vessels and stop bleeding
If bleeding persists beyond 20-30 minutes despite these measures, or if nosebleeds are frequent, heavy, or associated with injury or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention promptly
. In summary, the key home treatment for stopping a nosebleed is to sit upright, lean forward, and firmly pinch the soft part of the nose for 10-15 minutes while breathing through the mouth, complemented by cold compresses and nasal moisture maintenance
