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Nosebleed (Epistaxis)
A nosebleed is bleeding from the blood vessels inside the nose. Most are minor, come from the front of the nose, and stop with simple first aid.
Causes & risk factors
- Dry air or picking the nose
- Nose injury or blowing the nose hard
- Colds, allergies or infections
- High blood pressure
- Blood-thinning medicines
- Bleeding disorders in some cases
Common symptoms
- Bleeding from one or both nostrils
- Blood dripping down the back of the throat
- Feeling of a blocked nose
- Light-headedness with heavy bleeding
Tests & diagnosis
- Nasal examination
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Clotting tests (PT/INR)
- Blood pressure check
Treatment & management
- Sit up, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10–15 minutes
- Apply a cold pack to the bridge of the nose
- Avoid picking or blowing the nose after it stops
- Keeping the nasal lining moist to prevent recurrence
- Cautery or nasal packing by a doctor for persistent bleeding
When to see a doctor urgently
- Bleeding that does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure
- Very heavy bleeding or bleeding after a serious injury
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Feeling faint, pale or breathless with the bleeding
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about nosebleed (epistaxis). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tilt my head back during a nosebleed?
No. Lean forward instead, so blood does not run down your throat. Tilting back can cause you to swallow blood and feel sick.
Why do I get nosebleeds in dry weather?
Dry air can crack the delicate lining inside the nose. Keeping it moist with saline or a light ointment helps prevent bleeds.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.