Treating a Nosebleed

Updated August 6, 2019 | Infoplease Staff

Nosebleeds are more often annoying than life threatening. They are more common during cold weather, when heated air dries out nasal passages.

Treatment—(1) Keep the victim quietly seated, leaning forward if possible. (2) Gently pinch the nostrils closed. (3) Apply cold compresses to the victim's nose and face. (4) If the person is conscious, it may be helpful to apply pressure beneath the nostril above the lip. (5) Instruct victim not to blow his/her nose for several hours after the bleeding has stopped, or clots could be dislodged and start the bleeding again.