First Aid for Nosebleeds

  • 3 min reading time

Nosebleeds are common and can happen at home, at school, during sports, in the workplace or while travelling. Although they can look dramatic, most nosebleeds are minor and settle with simple first aid steps.

This guide explains what causes nosebleeds, what to do when one occurs and when further help may be needed. We also include tips for keeping your first aid kit prepared.

For other everyday injuries, you may find our burns and scalds guide and sprains & strains guide helpful.

Common Causes of Nosebleeds

Cause Examples
Minor impact Sports, accidental bumps, falls.
Dry or warm air Heating indoors, warm weather.
Nose picking / rubbing Common in children.
Colds or sneezing Nasal irritation or congestion.
High altitude or travel Pressure changes, dry cabin air.

First Aid Steps for Nosebleeds

You can follow these straightforward steps to help manage a nosebleed:

  1. Encourage the person to sit down. Keeping upright may help reduce bleeding.
  2. Lean them slightly forward. This helps avoid swallowing blood.
  3. Ask them to pinch the soft part of the nose. Hold for a short period without letting go.
  4. Encourage breathing through the mouth.
  5. Apply something cool to the area around the nose or forehead.

After the bleeding settles, avoid blowing the nose for a short period to help prevent it from starting again.

For more general household preparedness, see our home first aid kit guide.

When Further Help May Be Needed

Further advice may be required if:

  • The nosebleed lasts longer than a short period
  • There was a significant impact to the nose
  • The nose looks misaligned after injury
  • Nosebleeds occur frequently
  • The person feels unwell, lightheaded or anxious

Useful First Aid Kit Items for Nosebleeds

  • Tissues or gauze pads
  • Disposable gloves
  • Cold packs
  • Sterile wipes (for cleaning around the nose)
  • Waste bag for used tissues

To restock your supplies, you can browse our range of UK first aid kits or read our first aid kit refills guide.

How to Help Prevent Nosebleeds

  • Keep the inside of the nose from becoming dry, especially in winter
  • Encourage gentle nose blowing
  • Use protective equipment during sports
  • Keep children’s fingernails trimmed
  • Avoid very hot indoor air by ventilating rooms

For sports-related injuries, see our sports first aid guide.

Nosebleeds — FAQ

Should I tilt my head back during a nosebleed?
Leaning slightly forward is recommended.
Can I use tissues inside the nostrils?
Avoid placing anything inside the nostrils during the initial steps.
Is it normal for children to get nosebleeds?
Nosebleeds are common in children, especially during colds or dry weather.
Can exercise trigger a nosebleed?
Activity shortly after a nosebleed may make it start again.
How long should I pinch the nose for?
Hold the soft part of the nose for a short period without releasing.

 


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