What should you know about a nosebleed with COVID-19?

The delicate blood vessels at the front of the nose can bleed after dry air, forceful blowing, sneezing, congestion, or minor trauma. A swab can also irritate the lining temporarily. COVID-19 may cause nasal symptoms that encourage wiping or blowing, but a nosebleed does not by itself show that someone has COVID-19. Medicines that affect clotting and some nasal sprays can make bleeding easier or longer.

Sit upright and lean slightly forward so blood does not run down the throat. Pinch the soft part of the nose continuously while breathing through the mouth. Do not tilt the head back, lie flat, or repeatedly release pressure to check. After it stops, avoid picking, forceful blowing, heavy exertion, and very hot drinks for a while. If bleeding follows a nasal swab, mention it before another test.

Get urgent help if bleeding is heavy, follows a significant injury, causes weakness or faintness, or does not stop after sustained pressure. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, or inability to stay awake with suspected COVID-19. Arrange review for repeated nosebleeds or bleeding while taking a blood-thinning medicine.

Ask whether a medicine or nasal spray may be contributing, how to protect a dry nose, whether testing is suitable, and what bleeding pattern should prompt an examination.