Epistaxis (Nosebleeds)

Epistaxis is the medical term for a nosebleed. It is common and usually not serious, though it can be distressing. 

Most nosebleeds come from blood vessels in the front of the nose (anterior bleeds) and are easily managed. Rarely, bleeding from the back of the nose (posterior bleeds) may need hospital treatment. 

If you or someone else has a nosebleed: 

1. Sit upright – don’t lie down 

1. Lean forward slightly – to prevent blood going down the throat 

1. Pinch the soft part of the nose (just below the bony bridge) firmly for 10–15 minutes 

1. Spit out any blood – swallowing blood can cause nausea or vomiting 

1. After bleeding stops, avoid touching or blowing the nose 

If bleeding does not stop or is severe, hospital treatment may include: 

• Nasal cautery – sealing the bleeding vessel with silver nitrate 

• Nasal packing – using gauze or balloon packs to stop bleeding 

• Observation – for high-risk patients (e.g. those on blood thinners) 

• Blood tests or referral – if bleeding is frequent or unexplained 

You will be discharged with naseptin to apply 4 times daily for one week  

After a nosebleed or hospital visit: 

• Rest and stay calm 

• Avoid blowing or picking your nose 

• Use naseptin as prescribed 

• Use saline sprays or Vaseline to keep nasal passages moist 

• Sleep with your head slightly elevated 

To reduce the chance of another nosebleed: 

• Avoid hot drinks, hot showers, and spicy food for 24–48 hours 

• Avoid alcohol – it can widen blood vessels 

• Do not strain, lift heavy objects, or do intense exercise 

• Avoid smoking, which dries and irritates nasal passages 

• Keep your home air humidified during dry weather or when heating is on 

• Use saline sprays or a small dab of petroleum jelly inside nostrils 

Go to A&E or call 999 if: 

• Bleeding continues after 30 minutes of firm pressure 

• You feel dizzy, faint or have chest pain 

• You are taking blood thinners (e.g. warfarin, apixaban) and bleeding is heavy 

• You have frequent nosebleeds or bleeding from both nostrils 

For non-emergency concerns, call your GP or NHS 24 on 111.