Stop a Nosebleed Fast With These Home Remedies

A nosebleed can be pretty scary, especially if you don't have them that often. But even those who suffer from frequent nosebleeds find them unnerving.

But a nosebleed usually isn't that serious. And, by using a few simple home remedies, you can usually stop a nosebleed minutes after it started.

Holding your head back isn't the best remedy for a nosebleed.

Many people think the best way to stop a nosebleed is to hold your head back. But doing this will only cause you to swallow blood, which could cause nausea. It could also make you choke, cough, or gag. So, this is one nosebleed home remedy you should avoid.

Instead, sit up straight, with your head tilted slightly forward to prevent blood from running down your throat.

You also shouldn't lie down on your back if you have a nosebleed.

Gently blow your nose.

Gently blowing your nose will help clear out any blood clots that might be preventing a blood vessel from sealing naturally.

Pinch your nostrils closed to stop a nosebleed.

Use your thumb and forefinger to gently pinch the soft part of your nose shut for five or ten minutes, breathing through your mouth. (Use a napkin to catch any drips that squeeze through.) This will almost always stop a nosebleed.

If your nosebleed hasn't stopped after the first five or ten minutes, try pinching your nostrils again for another ten or fifteen minutes. If the bleeding hasn't stopped, you should head for the doctor's office or emergency room.

Apply a cold cloth.

Placing a cold cloth across the bridge of your nose will constrict blood vessels, and help stem the blood flow.

Or use an ice pack.

If your nosebleed was caused by a blow to the nose, applying ice will help slow the bleeding and reduce the swelling. The cold will also help blood clot a little faster. Wrap some ice cubes in a towel and gently rest it against your nose.

When to see a doctor.

Usually, a nosebleed isn't that serious. However, you should see a doctor if:

* You've applied pressure (pinched you nostrils) for the suggested amount of time, but your nosebleed still hasn't stopped.

* Your nosebleed is severe, and blood is gushing out of your nose.

* When you pinch your nostrils shut, you feel blood running down your throat.

* You suffer from frequent nosebleeds.

* Your nosebleed began after a blow to the head.

* Your nosebleed was caused by a blow to the nose, and you can't breathe out of one or both nostrils. This could mean your nose is broken. Apply ice to your nose and head for the emergency room.