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Nose Bleed/Epistaxis Treatment

How can Nosebleed be Treated?

Most nosebleeds can be treated at home. However, consult a doctor if bleeding cannot be stopped or there has been heavy blood loss.

Treatment of epistaxis includes the following steps -

  • Calm the patient.
  • The patient should sit with the upper part of the body tilted forward and the mouth open so that they can spit out the blood instead of swallowing.
  • Check to see if there is an object inside the victim's nose and remove it if necessary.
  • Pinch all the soft parts of the nose together between the thumb and index finger. Hold the nose for at least 5 minutes. Repeat until the nose has stopped bleeding.
  • Apply ice (crushed in a plastic bag or washcloth) across the bridge of the nose and cheeks.
  • For dryness of the nose- ointments can be applied.
  • A nasal spray decongestant can sometimes be used to close off small vessels if the bleeding persists.
  • Nasal packs are used when conservative methods fail.
  • Cauterization (the application of a heated instrument or chemical like silver nitrate to stop bleeding) may be required if bleeding persists or recurs.

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