Health4 min
How to stop a nosebleed
Most nosebleeds are from the front of the septum. Sit up, lean forward, and pinch — do not tip your head back.
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Sit up and lean forward
Blood should leave the nose, not run down the throat. Spit out anything that pools in the mouth. Lying back or tilting the chin up just hides the bleed.
Pinch the soft part
Use a thumb and finger on the soft cartilage, not the bony bridge. Hold steady pressure for a full 10 to 15 minutes. Peeking restarts the clock.
Cool the outside, then rest
A wrapped cold pack across the bridge can help. For the next few hours skip blowing, bending, hot drinks, and aspirin unless a clinician already told you to take it.
Watch for this
- A bleed after a head injury, or with confusion, is not a routine nosebleed.
- Blood thinners change the plan — call the prescriber’s line if you cannot stop the flow.
When to get help
Get urgent care if it is still going after 20 minutes of firm pressure, if you feel faint, or if bleeds keep returning.