A nosebleed refers to when a person bleeds from inside the nose.1 This can happen often in young children and older adults as well as due to trauma. Nosebleeds usually aren’t dangerous, and they’re very common. That’s because the nose contains small blood vessels that bleed easily.2 If the nose becomes dried out, crusts can form that bleed when irritated.2 That’s why nosebleeds are more common in winter when the air is dry and it’s easy to become irritated by cold viruses.2 When a nosebleed occurs, it’s usually in only one nostril.2 Nosebleeds are very rarely life threatening. However, if they become frequent and occur more than once per week, it may be time to see your doctor.1
Nosebleed causes vary, but it’s usually due to irritation or dry air, which is why it’s not a huge concern in most cases.2 Nosebleed causes can include:
If you experience frequent nosebleeds, this may be a sign of a bleeding disorder, high blood pressure, or a tumor in your sinuses. Some medications like blood thinners can be among nosebleed causes.2 See your doctor if nosebleeds last longer than half an hour, occur in children under 2, cause difficulty breathing, or are the result of trauma.3
Nosebleeds can be painless and come with no other symptoms but bleeding from the nostril. However, nosebleeds can be accompanied with other symptoms like:
If you experience these other nosebleed symptoms, consult your doctor as it may require further treatment.
Nosebleeds can usually be treated at home. Start by pinching your nose and sitting upright and forward to slow the blood flow and to keep yourself from swallowing any blood.3 If needed, blow your nose gently to clear clotted blood. You can prevent future nosebleeds by using a humidifier in the home and avoiding picking your nose. Other nosebleed home remedies include:
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is the most effective natural product for Nosebleed CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Use apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy to help congeal blood to stop a nosebleed. Apply apple cider vinegar to inside of nose using a cotton ball. Leave the cotton ball inside the nose for up to one minute until bleeding stops.
Vitamin C is a natural anti-oxidant that helps to strengthen blood capillaries which can prevent nosebleeds. Take 500-1,000 mg of vitamin C four times daily for two days after a nosebleed to help strengthen capillaries in the nose. Take 500 mg of vitamin C twice daily for one month following a nose bleed.
Cayenne pepper acts as a natural blood flow regulator which can help to heal a nosebleed. Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to a glass of warm water. Stir well and drink twice daily. Or take cayenne pepper capsules 3 times daily.
Nettle is a herbal remedy that acts as a natural astringent. Astringents like nettles help to promote blood clotting and stop blood flow which can heal a nosebleed. Infuse natural nettle leaves into 1 cup of hot water and drink as a tea 2-3 time daily.
Vitamin K is a natural blood clotting remedy that can help stop and prevent nosebleeds. It is important to add more vitamin K to your diet if you suffer from recurring nosebleeds. Take 25 micrograms of Vitamin K twice daily for one month following a nosebleed.