Nosebleeds

A nosebleed is bleeding from the blood vessels inside the nose. Knowing how to stop a nosebleed starts with leaning forward and pinching the soft part of the nose. Most nosebleeds stop within 10 to 15 minutes.

What Is It

Most nosebleeds come from small vessels at the front of the nose. Dry winter air from indoor heating is the most common trigger in the Chicago area. Nose picking, colds, allergies, nasal sprays, and minor injuries also cause them. Blood thinners can make bleeding last longer.

Symptoms

Bleeding from one nostril, sometimes both
Blood dripping down the back of the throat
Swallowed blood that causes nausea
Bleeding that starts after blowing or picking the nose
Repeat nosebleeds during dry months
Crusting inside the nose

Not sure why the nose keeps bleeding? A stuffy nose and frequent blowing from a sinus infection can irritate the lining and trigger repeat nosebleeds.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider finds where the bleeding is coming from. A small bleeding vessel may be sealed, or packing may be placed to stop stubborn bleeding. Blood pressure and medicines that affect bleeding are reviewed.

At home:

Sit up and lean forward, not back
Pinch the soft part of the nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes without letting go
Spray a decongestant nasal spray once, then pinch again if bleeding continues
Use saline spray and a humidifier to keep the nose moist

Avoid blowing your nose, bending over, and heavy lifting for a day after a nosebleed.

When to Get Care for a Nosebleed

Watch at Home

A nosebleed that stops with 10 to 15 minutes of pressure
Occasional nosebleeds in dry weather
Feeling well otherwise

Come to Urgent Care Today

Bleeding that needs more than 15 minutes of pressure to stop
Nosebleeds several times a week
Nosebleeds while taking blood thinners
Repeat nosebleeds in a young child
Easy bruising or bleeding gums along with nosebleeds

Go to the Emergency Department

Bleeding that will not stop after 20 to 30 minutes of firm pressure
Heavy bleeding with dizziness, fainting, or a racing heart
A nosebleed after a head injury or a blow to the face
Trouble breathing or vomiting large amounts of blood

FAQ

How do you stop a nosebleed fast?

To stop a nosebleed fast, sit up, lean forward, and pinch the soft part of your nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes without letting go. Breathe through your mouth.

Should you tilt your head back for a nosebleed?

No, do not tilt your head back for a nosebleed. It sends blood down the throat, which can cause choking or vomiting. Lean forward instead.

What causes frequent nosebleeds?

Frequent nosebleeds are most often caused by dry indoor air, nose picking, allergies, colds, or nasal sprays. Blood thinners and some bleeding conditions can also cause them.

Why do kids get so many nosebleeds?

Kids get frequent nosebleeds because the vessels in the front of the nose are close to the surface. Dry air, colds, and nose picking are the usual causes.

Can urgent care stop a nosebleed?

Yes, urgent care can stop most nosebleeds that do not stop with pressure. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can find the source and help stop stubborn bleeding.

When is a nosebleed an emergency?

A nosebleed is an emergency when it will not stop after 20 to 30 minutes of pressure, follows a head injury, or comes with fainting or trouble breathing.

Last reviewed October 2026