Nosebleeds: The Real Causes and Correct First Aid (A Common Issue Most People Still Misunderstand)
"Nosebleeds" (Epistaxis) are a common health issue found in people of all ages. They often happen suddenly, causing panic for many. However, what is just as important as staying calm is providing first aid correctly. Believe it or not, the methods we were taught since childhood—such as "tilting your head back" or "putting a cold compress on top of the head"—are actually incorrect and can cause more harm to the body than you might think.
Today, Jumroon Clinic will take you through the real causes of nosebleeds and share the medically correct steps for first aid.
Why Do Nosebleeds Happen? What is the Real Cause?
The front area of the nasal septum (known as Little's Area) contains a dense network of tiny blood vessels. This area is extremely delicate and sensitive to external stimuli. The main causes of nosebleeds can be divided into two factors:
External Factors and Lifestyle:
Weather Conditions: Cold, dry winter air or staying in air-conditioned rooms for long periods dries out the nasal lining, making blood vessels fragile and prone to rupturing.
Irritation: Aggressive nose-picking, blowing your nose too hard, or foreign objects stuck in the nose (commonly found in young children).
Pollution: Inhaling cigarette smoke, PM 2.5 dust, or corrosive chemicals.
Health and Structural Factors:
Pre-existing Conditions: Seasonal allergies, sinusitis, high blood pressure, or blood clotting disorders.
Nasal Structure: People with a Deviated Nasal Septum experience unbalanced airflow. This causes the nasal lining on the deviated side to dry out easily, leading to more frequent bleeding.
Medications: Side effects from steroid nasal sprays, blood thinners, or anticoagulant medications.
Common Misconceptions! What NOT to Do When Having a Nosebleed
❌ Tilting Your Head Back: This is the most critical mistake. Tilting your head back does not stop the bleeding; instead, it causes blood to flow down the back of your throat. This can lead to choking, blood entering the airway, or swallowing blood into the stomach, which causes irritation and vomiting of blood.
❌ Stuffing Tissues into the Nostril: Regular tissue paper has a rough texture. When inserted and then pulled out after the blood starts to clot, the tissue fibers can tear the newly forming scab, causing the wound to reopen and bleed again.
3 Steps for Proper First Aid
If you or someone near you has a nosebleed, follow these international standard first aid steps:
Lean Forward Slightly:
Sit upright and lean your head slightly forward so the blood drains out of your nostrils, preventing it from flowing down your throat.
Pinch the Nose:
Use your thumb and index finger to firmly pinch the soft part of both nostrils together. This applies pressure directly to the bleeding point (Little's Area) at the front of the nose. Breathe through your mouth and hold this position continuously for 5–10 minutes without releasing to check in between.
Apply a Cold Compress:
Place a cold cloth or ice pack over the bridge of the nose, forehead, or around the neck to help constrict the blood vessels faster (placing it on top of the head is not necessary).
When Should You See a Doctor Immediately?
Generally, if you follow the correct first aid steps, the bleeding should stop within 10–15 minutes. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following warning signs:
The bleeding continues for more than 20–30 minutes despite pinching your nose correctly.
You feel faint, dizzy, lightheaded, or experience a rapid heart rate.
There is a large amount of blood loss, or frequent, recurrent bleeding from both nostrils.
The nosebleed occurs after a severe head or facial injury.
In most cases, nosebleeds are not life-threatening if managed correctly. However, if you experience frequent nosebleeds without a clear cause, or if you suspect an issue with your internal nasal structure, consulting a specialist for a thorough examination is the best way to ensure long-term respiratory health.
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