Nosebleed

What is it?

Epistaxis is extremely common, affecting up to 60% of people at some point. Most nosebleeds are anterior (from Kiesselbach's plexus on the anterior nasal septum) and stop within 20 minutes with simple pressure. Posterior nosebleeds — originating deeper in the nasal cavity — are less common but heavier and more difficult to control, requiring medical intervention. Dry air, nose-picking, allergic rhinitis, and anticoagulant medications are leading causes. Recurrent or heavy nosebleeds warrant evaluation for hypertension, coagulopathy, or hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Bleeding that does not stop after 20–30 minutes of continuous pressure
• 2Heavy bleeding causing you to swallow or cough up large amounts of blood
• 3Nosebleed following a head injury
• 4Recurrent nosebleeds (more than 2–3 per week) without clear cause
• 5Nosebleed in someone taking blood thinners with unusually heavy bleeding
• 6Nosebleed with pallor, lightheadedness, or rapid heart rate (significant blood loss)

What you can do

• ✓Sit upright and lean forward slightly — prevents swallowing blood
• ✓Pinch the soft part of the nose (not the bridge) and hold firm pressure for 10–15 continuous minutes
• ✓Do not pack cotton far into the nose or tilt your head back
• ✓Apply saline nasal gel or petroleum jelly to the anterior septum in dry climates
• ✓Use a humidifier during winter months to prevent nasal dryness

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions