Nosebleed that will not stop: what to do

Nosebleeds often start from fragile vessels near the front of the nasal lining. Dry air, rubbing, forceful blowing, allergies, a cold or sinus inflammation can reopen a clot. Medicines that affect clotting, a recent injury and some medical conditions can also make bleeding harder to control. The amount of blood and your symptoms matter more than guessing the cause from the nosebleed alone.

Blood running into the throat may happen when the head is tilted back. Swallowing it can cause nausea, so lean forward and spit it out when possible.

Sit upright and lean slightly forward. Breathe through your mouth, then pinch the soft part of both nostrils firmly without releasing to check. Keep steady pressure for a full period of time. If blood reaches your mouth, spit it out. Do not pack the nose with tissues, tilt your head back or lie down. Once it stops, avoid blowing or picking your nose and avoid strenuous activity for a while. A pharmacist can advise about saline or a nasal moisturiser for dryness.

Get urgent medical help if the bleeding remains active despite sustained pressure, is heavy, follows a head or facial injury, or comes with faintness, weakness, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing. Seek prompt advice if you take blood-thinning medicine, have a bleeding disorder or experience repeated episodes. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint.

Ask what may have triggered the episode, whether any medicine should be reviewed, how to prevent recurrence and whether an examination or blood test is needed.