Bloody nose and sore throat: what to know

A dry or blocked nose can make you breathe through your mouth, leaving the throat scratchy while the nasal lining becomes easier to damage. Allergic Rhinitis, Common Cold and COVID-19 may inflame the nose and throat at the same time. Influenza, Tonsillitis, Strep Throat or Glandular Fever can cause significant throat pain, with a nosebleed occurring separately after forceful blowing or rubbing. Acid Reflux may irritate the throat but does not usually explain a nosebleed.

Look for clues such as cough, runny nose, fever, swollen neck glands, white patches, hoarseness, heartburn or difficulty swallowing. These details help a clinician decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

For the nosebleed, sit forward and pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for ten minutes. Avoid tilting back, blowing the nose or clearing the throat forcefully. Sip cool fluids, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and rest. Saline spray or a humidifier may reduce nasal dryness. Follow medicine label directions and ask a pharmacist before using a decongestant or pain reliever if you have other conditions or take regular medicines.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, swelling of the face or neck, faintness, or bleeding that is heavy or continues despite firm pressure. Seek prompt medical advice for a severe sore throat with fever, dehydration, a spreading rash, marked one-sided swelling or repeated nosebleeds. Arrange review if symptoms are not settling or keep returning.

Ask whether your throat needs a swab or examination, whether allergies or reflux could be contributing, how to protect the nasal lining, and which symptom medicines are suitable with your health history.