Nosebleeds : First aid-Conditions-Prevention

What is Nosebleeds : First aid?

Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, can be a common occurrence for many people. They happen when the blood vessels in the nasal passages rupture and bleed. While nosebleeds can be alarming, they are usually not a cause for concern and can be treated easily at home. First aid for nosebleeds involves a few simple steps to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.

Nosebleeds are common. They can be a nuisance, as well as a true medical problem.

Nosebleed care

• Sit upright and lean slightly forward.By remaining upright, you reduce blood pressure in your nose. This will discourage further bleeding. Sitting forward will help you avoid swallowing blood, which could irritate your stomach.

• Blow your nose gently.Blow your nose to clear your nose of clots. Spray a nasal decongestant containing oxymetazoline (Afrin) on both sides of your nose.

• Pinch your nose.Close your nostrils with your thumb and index finger.Breathe through your nose to get more air. Keep pinching for 10 to 15 minutes. This will apply pressure to the bleeding point on the nasal septum, and often will stop the flow of blood.
  If the bleeding doesn't stop after 10 to 15 minutes, repeat holding pressure for another 10 to 15 minutes. If the bleeding still continues, go to a hospital. Do not look at your nose if this happens.

• To prevent re-bleeding,Do not pick your nose or bend over for several hours. Keep your head higher than your heart. You can also use petroleum jelly to cover the inside of your nose with a cotton swab or your finger.

• If re-bleeding occurs,If the bleeding continues, please call your doctor.

When to seek emergency care

• The bleeding lasts for more than 30 minutes after the needle has been removed.

• You might feel faint or lightheaded.

• When you get a nosebleed, it's usually because you've had an accident, like falling or getting punched in the face.

When to contact your doctor

• You experience frequent nosebleeds.Your doctor may need to cauterize the blood vessel. This can be done with an electric current or a laser. To do this, your doctor may use special gauze or an inflatable latex balloon to put pressure on the vessel and stop the bleeding.

• You're having nasal bleeding and are taking blood thinners to prevent further bleeding.Some medications, such as aspirin or warfarin (Jantoven), may need to be adjusted by your doctor.

Put a water-based lubricant in your nostrils and increase the humidity in your home to help stop nasal bleeding.

• Emergency essentials : First-aid kits-Emergency health information
• First Aid : Types of first aid - First aid conditions