General Information

Nosebleeds are very common during childhood. They are usually caused by the nasal lining being dry. Children normally will rub and pick their nose when it is dry, blocked, or itchy. Blowing the nose too hard can cause a nosebleed. Children with nasal allergies are more likely to have nosebleeds because they blow and rub their noses more often.

What to do to stop the bleeding

Place your child leaning forward and get them to spit out any blood. Get a basin ready so they do not have to swallow the blood that may drain into their throat. Swallowing blood may irritate their stomach or cause them to vomit blood.

Pinch the soft side parts of the nose for 10 minutes to apply pressure against the center wall of the nose. Your child will have to breathe through their mouth during this time. Do not release pressure until the time is up. Wipe out or have your child blowout any large clots that may interfere with applying pressure.

If bleeding does not stop, put gauze or cotton soaked in Afrin or Neo Synephrine into the nostril and pinch the nose again for 10 minutes.

If bleeding persists call the office or go to the Emergency Room. Continue holding pressure in the meantime.

Nosebleed prevention.

Apply normal saline drops or mist 4 times a day to help moisten the nose (Ocean mist or Ayr mist).

Put antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin) on both sides of the inside of the nose using your finger at bedtime after the saline drops have been applied.

Treat nasal allergies that irritate the nose to help with itching and bleeding. Over the counter allergy medicines such as Claritin or Dimetap are sufficient.