What to Do When Someone Has a Nosebleed (And What Not to Do)

Nosebleeds are one of those things that look alarming but are usually straightforward to manage. Most will stop on their own within a few minutes if you handle them correctly. The trouble is, a lot of people still reach for advice they learned years ago that’s actually more harm than help.

Here’s what you need to know.

Lean Forward, Not Back

This is probably the most common mistake. If someone tilts their head back during a nosebleed, blood runs down the back of the throat instead of out. That can cause nausea, vomiting, or even lead to blood being swallowed in larger quantities, which isn’t pleasant.

The correct position is sitting upright, leaning slightly forward. This lets the blood drain outward and keeps the airway clear.

Pinch the Soft Part of the Nose

Once the person is leaning forward, ask them to pinch the soft part of their nose, just below the bony bridge. That’s where most nosebleeds are coming from. Pinching higher up over the bone doesn’t help.

They should breathe through their mouth and hold that pressure continuously for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing to check. The urge to peek is strong, but releasing the pressure early means starting the clock again.

A cloth or tissue can catch the blood, but don’t pack anything inside the nostril.

Stay Calm and Stay Put

Ask the person to sit quietly and try not to sniff, cough, or swallow forcefully during this time. It sounds simple, but keeping them calm and still makes a real difference. Stress and movement can keep blood pressure elevated and make the bleeding harder to stop.

After 10 to 15 minutes, if the bleeding has slowed, they can gently release pressure. Avoid blowing the nose immediately afterwards, as this can dislodge the clot that’s formed.

When to Call 999 or Seek Medical Help

Most nosebleeds resolve quickly with the steps above. But there are times when you should seek help:

• your nosebleed lasts longer than 10 to 15 minutes
• the bleeding seems excessive
• you’re swallowing a large amount of blood that makes you vomit
• the bleeding started after a blow to your head
• you’re feeling weak or dizzy
• you’re having difficulty breathing

If you’re ever unsure, don’t wait. It’s always better to call 111 for guidance or 999 if the situation feels urgent.

Seek a review with the GP if:

• a child under 2 years old has had a nosebleed
• you have regular nosebleeds
• you have symptoms of anaemia – such as a faster heartbeat (palpitations), shortness of breath and skin that is paler than normal for you
• you have a nosebleed and you’re taking a medicine that helps prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
• you have a nosebleed and you have a condition that means your blood cannot clot properly, such as haemophilia

A Quick Recap

• Lean forward, not back
• Pinch the soft part of the nose
• Hold pressure for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing
• Don’t pack the nostril or tilt the head back
• Call 999 or seek help if bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or follows a head injury.

Want to Feel Confident in a Real Emergency?

Knowing what to do in the moment makes all the difference. Our first aid courses at Respire Medical Services are designed to give you exactly that: practical, hands-on skills taught by qualified paramedics who’ve seen it all in the real world.

Whether you’re looking for a course for your team, your workplace, or yourself, we’d love to help. Take a look at what we offer and get in touch to find the right training for you.