Nosebleeds can run the gamut from a tiny trickle to a big gush. But while it may be disturbing to see blood drip from your otherwise placid nose, there is usually no need to worry. There are many effective ways for nosebleeds, and nosebleeds are typically harmless annoyances. While it may look like you’re losing lots of blood, the amount is usually insignificant.
Step One
Stay Upright - The first thing to do for a nosebleed is to stay upright. When you sit upright and lean forward, the blood pressure in your nose is reduced. This helps lower the pressure of the blood being pushed out of the nose and gives the body a chance to stop the bleeding. Leaning forward keeps the blood running out of your nose instead of running down your throat.
Step Two
Pinch Nose - Applying pressure to the nose by pinching can also help stop the bleeding. Pressure can help stop the blood long enough for the body to scab the opening. Be sure to breathe regularly through your mouth while pinching your nose closed. Check to see if the bleeding has stopped after 10 minutes of holding.
Step Three
Cauterizing - Those who get constant nosebleeds might want to consider having the problem fixed surgically. Frequent nosebleeds are usually caused by the same blood vessel each time. Your doctor can determine whether you qualify to have the blood vessel cauterized. Cauterizing involves taking a special piece of medical equipment and using an electrical charge, laser or silver nitrate to block blood from entering the damaged vessel that is causing the nosebleeds.
Step Four
Vinegar - Take a cloth or cotton ball and wet it with white vinegar. Plug it in the nostril that's bleeding. Vinegar helps seal up the blood vessel wall.
Step Five
Whole-wheat bread - Zinc is a nutrient known to help maintain the body's blood vessels. Eat whole-wheat bread and brown rice, two foods high in zinc. Or, for a snack, try some popcorn, which also contains zinc.
Step Six
Ice - Ice is nice for stopping bleeding, constricting the blood vessels, and reducing inflammation (if the nose is injured). Place crushed iced into a plastic zipper-type bag and cover with a towel. (A bag of frozen vegetables works fine, too.) Place the compress on the bridge of the nose and hold until well after the bleeding stops.
Step Seven
Salt - Nasal irrigation, commonly used by allergy sufferers to rid the nasal passages of mucus, dust, and other gunk, also helps soothe and moisturize irritated nasal membranes. You'll need 1 to 11/2 cups lukewarm water (do not use softened water), a bulb (ear) syringe (typically found with baby products in the pharmacy), 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Mix the salt and baking soda into the water, and test the temperature. To administer, suck in the water using the bulb, and squirt the saline solution into one nostril while holding the other closed. Lower your head over the sink and gently blow out the water. Repeat this, alternating nostrils until the water is gone.