Nosebleeds: What Causes Them and How to Stop Them Safely

What causes nosebleeds?

A nosebleed (epistaxis) usually comes from fragile blood vessels inside the front of the nose. Common triggers include:

• Dry air (A/C or heat), low humidity

• Colds, allergies, frequent nose blowing

• Nose picking or minor trauma

• Exercise or hot showers

• Blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, DOACs)

• High blood pressure

• Structural issues (deviated septum), or rarely, a tumor or bleeding disorder

How to stop a nosebleed (the right way)

1. Sit up and lean forward slightly—don’t lie back.

2. Pinch the soft part of both nostrils (just below the bony bridge) using your thumb and index finger.

3. Hold constant pressure for 10 minutes without peeking. Time it.

4. If still bleeding, repeat once for another 10 minutes.

5. After bleeding stops, avoid blowing, heavy lifting, hot drinks/showers, or nose picking for 24 hours.

Tip: A few sprays of oxymetazoline (Afrin®) can help constrict vessels. Use only as directed and not for more than 3 days in a row.

When to seek medical care

• Bleeding lasts >20 minutes despite proper pressure

• Soaks through multiple cloths or you feel light-headed

• Bleeding after facial trauma

• Occurs frequently (several times per week)

• You’re on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder

• Nosebleeds in young children or older adults that are recurrent

How we treat frequent nosebleeds at Vitale ENT

• Targeted exam: Nasal endoscopy to find the exact source (e.g., Kiesselbach’s plexus).

• Moisture plan: Saline gel/sprays, bedside humidifier, allergy control.

• Cautery: Silver nitrate or electrocautery to seal the problem vessel (quick, in-office).

• Packing/hemostasis materials: If needed for active bleeds.

• Address underlying causes: Septal deviation, chronic inflammation, medication review, blood pressure control.

• Education: Technique refresher for safe first aid and prevention.

Preventing future nosebleeds

• Run a humidifier at night (40–50% humidity).

• Use saline gel or ointment inside each nostril morning and night.

• Treat allergies and use nasal steroid sprays with proper technique (spray out toward the ear, not the septum).

• Keep fingernails short; discourage nose picking in kids.

• Limit non-essential NSAIDs if your doctor says it’s safe.

Tampa Bay Area Care

Vitale ENT — Wesley Chapel • Lutz • Zephyrhills
Request an appointment: (813) 406-4400 | VitaleENT.com