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How to stop nosebleeds

December 7, 2017

Epistaxis - a nosebleed - can be frightening. In fact, it's quite easy to stop the bleeding.

https://p.dw.com/p/1EYfU
Frau drückt Nasenflügel zusammen, Quelle: Fotolia
Image: Fotolia/O. Schulz

Actually you treat a nosebleed just the way you would any other bleeding - by applying direct pressure. Pinch the two wings of the nose together, the sides against the middle, and hold them together for 2 to 5 minutes. When you let go, the bleeding will usually have stopped. If it hasn't, repeat the process. You can also apply an ice pack to your nose and cheeks. Cold will constrict the blood vessels and help stop the bleeding. Never tilt your head back. That may cause blood to run down the back of your throat, and you may swallow it. Swallowed blood can irritate your stomach and cause vomiting.