A nosebleed during a cold: apply pressure and know whom to call

Call 15 or 112 for heavy bleeding, faintness or serious trauma. While waiting, pressure may reduce the bleeding, except after major facial trauma. A battery or chemical product placed in the nose also needs urgent care, without attempting removal at home.

For a small bleed without concerning signs, sit and tilt the head slightly forward while breathing through the mouth. Do not tilt the head backwards. In this small-bleed context, Ameli first advises blowing the nose very gently once to remove the largest clots.

Pinch the nostrils with thumb and index finger just below the bony part. Maintain pressure continuously for ten minutes, using a clock, without releasing to check. If this small bleed continues, repeat for ten minutes; worsening or faintness must not wait until that time has elapsed.

Seek medical advice if bleeding persists or worsens despite pressure, or if episodes recur. Explain the circumstances, duration and medicines taken, particularly anticoagulants or antiplatelet medicines. The doctor assesses the cause and whether ENT advice is needed; a cold does not prove the cause of every episode.

After bleeding stops, avoid blowing the nose for at least twelve hours, then do so gently. Do not scratch, rub or put anything into the nostrils. Colds and dry air may irritate the lining, but these possible explanations do not replace assessment of recurrent bleeding.

A suspected or reported object in a child’s nose requires prompt medical advice. Do not improvise removal with an instrument. After an object is removed, bleeding that continues for more than two to three minutes despite pressure also requires prompt consultation: do not automatically apply two ten-minute periods. General prevention follows this appropriate care route.