Epistaxis (nose bleed)

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

For 24 hours after bleeding, where practical, you should avoid activities which may increase the risk of re-bleeding. 

These include:

• blowing or picking the nose
• heavy lifting
• strenuous exercise
• lying flat
• drinking alcohol or hot drinks.

If the bleeding starts again, then you should:

• sit down and lean forward, with your head tilted forward
• avoid lying down, unless you are feeling faint
• leaning forward decreases blood flow through the nose and mouth, allows spitting out of blood, and minimises swallowing of blood
• pinch your nose just above nostrils firmly for 10-15 minutes
• breath through your mouth.

If the bleeding does not stop with these simple measures further assistant should be gained through calling 999 if severe. If minor call 111 or your doctor's surgery.

Patient advice leaflet - Reviewed June 2023