To stop a nosebleed, follow these effective steps:
- Stay calm to avoid increasing blood flow.
- Sit upright and lean slightly forward to prevent blood from running down your throat, which can cause nausea or choking.
- Pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bony bridge) firmly using your thumb and index finger. Maintain this pressure continuously for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing to check if bleeding has stopped.
- Breathe through your mouth while pinching your nose.
- If bleeding continues after the first 10 to 15 minutes, repeat the pinching for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- Avoid tilting your head back or lying down, as this can worsen bleeding or cause swallowing of blood.
- After bleeding stops, do not blow your nose or pick at it for at least 48 hours to allow healing.
- You can apply a decongestant nasal spray (e.g., Afrin) before pinching to help constrict blood vessels.
- If bleeding persists beyond 30 minutes despite these measures, or if bleeding is heavy, seek medical attention promptly.
Additional tips include avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for up to two weeks after a nosebleed, as this can provoke re-bleeding
