Nosebleeds occur in the most unlikely situations and can sometimes be quite embarrassing, but also frightening, when a sudden gush of blood comes out of the nose. Usually relatively little blood comes out of the nose, but it seems like several litres when the tissues turn blood-red in a few seconds. But don't panic, nosebleeds can usually be stopped within a few minutes. Here are some effective methods to stop nosebleeds:

 

Pinch your nose together. This is the easiest method if you have nothing to hand. Sit up straight and keep your head slightly tilted forwards so that the blood does not run down your throat. Gently squeeze out any blood clots that could prevent the blood from clotting. Then pinch your nostrils firmly together with your thumb and forefinger and hold them closed for about 10 minutes.

 

Another option, especially for more severe nosebleeds, is to put a bundle of paper tissues in the nostrils. Leave them there for at least five minutes, even if they soak up blood. The tissues put pressure on the blood vessels and speed up blood clotting. Some people swear by soaking the tissue in vinegar or lemon juice beforehand or sprinkling salt on it.

 

An ice pack is very effective if you have it to hand. The ice constricts the blood vessels and immediately reduces the amount of blood that escapes. You can use the ice pack to keep the bleeding under control until it stops completely.

 

If you have frequent nosebleeds, you should keep a nasal spray with you. Nasal spray, e.g. Afrin or Neo-Synephrine, constricts the blood vessels and stops the bleeding.