Stop the (Nose) Bleeding

Wednesday, September 01, 2004

ROCHESTER, Minn. —Nosebleeds happen often. The September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter offers steps to prevent and stop nosebleeds.

Decrease risk —Use a humidifier to increase air humidity. Lubricate the inside of your nose with nasal saline gel (Ayr gel) or petroleum jelly.

Pinch the nostrils to stop the bleeding —Use the thumb and index finger to pinch the nostrils as you breathe through your mouth. Continue to pinch for five to 10 minutes.

Prevent re-bleeding —Don't pick at or blow your nose. Keep your head higher than the level of your heart for several hours after the bleeding.

Stop re-bleeding —Sniff forcefully to clear your nose of blood clots. Spray a decongestant nasal spray containing oxymetazoline into both nostrils. Pinch nose again using the technique described above and call your doctor. (Caution: Oxymetazoline can be problematic if used more than four consecutive days.)

Seek medical attention —See a doctor if the bleeding lasts more than 15 to 30 minutes, if you feel weak or faint, if the bleeding is rapid, or if the bleeding begins by trickling down the back of your throat.

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville - Erik Kaldor 904-953-2299

Mayo Clinic Scottsdale - Anne Tewksbury 480-301-436

Mayo Clinic Health Letter is an eight-page monthly newsletter of reliable, accurate and practical information on today's health and medical news. To subscribe, please call toll free 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.

###

To obtain the latest news releases from Mayo Clinic, go to www.mayoclinic.org/news. MayoClinic.com is available as a resource for your health stories.