The following tips may reduce your risk for developing nosebleeds.
- Use saltwater (saline) nose drops or a spray.
- Avoid forceful nose-blowing.
- Do not pick your nose or put your finger in your nose to remove crusts.
- Avoid lifting or straining after a nosebleed.
- Elevate your head on one or two pillows while sleeping.
- Apply a light coating of a moisturizing ointment, such as Vaseline, to the
inside of your nose.
- Limit your use of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, if you have frequent
nosebleeds.Acetaminophen,
such as Tylenol or Panadol, may be used to relieve pain.
- Do not use nonprescription antihistamines, decongestants, and medicated
nasal sprays. These medications can help control cold and allergy symptoms, but
overuse may dry the inside of the nose (mucous membranes) and cause nosebleeds.
- Keep your blood pressure under control if you have a history of high
blood pressure. This will help decrease the risk of nosebleeds.
- Do not smoke. Smoking slows healing. For more information, see the topic Quitting
Tobacco Use.
- Do not use illegal drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines.
Make changes in your home
- Humidify your home, especially the bedrooms. Low humidity is a common cause
of nosebleeds.
- Keep the heat low [60° (16°) to 64° (18°)] in sleeping areas. Cooler air
does not dry out the nasal passages.
- Breathe moist air, such as from a shower, for a while if your nose becomes
very dry. Then put a little moisturizing ointment, such as Vaseline, inside your
nostrils to help prevent bleeding. However, do not put anything inside your nose
if your nose is bleeding. Occasional use of saline
nasal sprays may also help keep nasal tissue moist.
Prevent nosebleeds in children
- Keep your child's fingernails trimmed and discourage nose-picking.
- Caution children not to put any object in their noses.