The skin inside your nose is fragile and filled with blood vessels. That's why even a slight injury to your nose can sometimes cause bleeding. Hard nose blowing, dry winter air, colds, and nose-picking can also cause nosebleeds. Medicines, such as aspirin and other blood thinners, can make it more likely to have a nosebleed that's hard to stop. Normally, nosebleeds aren't a cause for concern. But in some cases, they can mean that you have a more serious health problem. Know when to get medical care for a nosebleed.

Most nosebleeds aren't a medical emergency. In fact, you often can treat them yourself. But see your doctor if you have nosebleeds often. Call 911, or get immediate medical care at the nearest emergency department if you:

• Have trouble breathing
• Have a head injury
• Your nose is still bleeding after you have pinched the nose shut 2 times for 15 minutes each time (30 minutes total)
• Feel weak or faint
• There is a lot of blood running down the back of your throat even after you pinch your nose and tilt your head forward

• You'll be examined and may have blood tests.
• You may be given medicated nose drops to stop the nosebleed.
• The doctor may pack gauze, or a small balloon, into your nose to put pressure on the vessel and help stop bleeding.
• The bleeding vessel may be cauterized. During this procedure, the vessel is burned with an electrical device or chemical. Your nose is first numbed so you won't feel any pain.
• In rare cases, you may need surgery to control the bleeding.

• If you get a nosebleed:
  • Gently blow your nose to clear any clots.
  • Sit up and tilt your head slightly forward. This keeps blood from going down your throat.
  • Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the front, soft part of your nose shut for at least 15 minutes. Use a clock. Do not check to see if the bleeding has stopped before the 15 minutes are up. If the bleeding has not stopped, pinch your nose shut for another 10 to 15 minutes. Using a nasal decongestant spray, such as oxymetazoline (Afrin) before pinching your nose can also help to stop the bleeding. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• When the bleeding has stopped, try not to pick, rub, or blow your nose for several hours. Avoiding these things helps keep your nose from bleeding again
• Don't drink alcohol or hot liquids for the next 2 days. Alcohol and hot liquids can dilate blood vessels in your nose. This can cause bleeding to start again.
• Don't take ibuprofen, naproxen, or medicines that contain aspirin. These thin the blood and may cause your nose to bleed. You may take acetaminophen for pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed.
• If you have a cold, allergies, or dry nasal membranes, lubricate the nasal passages. Gently apply a small amount of petroleum jelly inside the nose with a cotton swab twice a day (morning and night).
• Don't overheat your home. This can dry the air and make your condition worse.
• Put a humidifier in the room where you sleep. This will add moisture to the air.
• Use a saline nasal spray to keep nasal passages moist.
• Don't pick your nose. Keep fingernails trimmed to decrease risk of bleeds.
• Don't smoke. Stay away from secondhand smoke. Don't let people smoke in your home.
• Follow all other home care instructions from your doctor.
• Call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.