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The Best Way to Get Rid of a Bloody Nose

Epistaxis, a fancy word for nosebleeds, is a common problem, albeit an embarrassing one. Nosebleeds are wholly unpredictable, occurring during the most inconvenient times: watching a movie, sitting in a cubicle, even on first dates. There are several methods for combating nosebleeds head on.

  1. Oranges and Salads

    • One potential cause of nosebleeds is a vitamin deficiency. The book "Alternative Medicine" explains that a deficiency in bioflavonoids and vitamins C and K could cause nosebleeds. If you cannot remember the last time you enjoyed a nice glass of orange juice, grab a cup and drink up.

      Vitamin K is found in leafy greens like spinach, romaine and Swiss chard. Ensuring you have adequate vitamin and mineral levels could make a difference if your nose bleeding is a recurring problem. While the dry or cold weather might be a contributing source to nosebleeds, check your diet as well for a potential cause.

    "Thumbs Up" Method

    • If you strongly dislike tilting your head back while you feel (and taste) blood, stop-nosebleeds.org recommends holding your thumb in a "thumbs up" gesture and pressing it firmly on the bleeding nostril. Use the hand on the same side of your body as the nostril. Keep your head straight forward. Ease the pressure from your thumb over the course of five to 10 minutes. Avoid blowing your nose until a few hours have passed to prevent another round.

    Toilet Paper

    • Take a length of about five sheets of toilet paper, roll it into a cigarette-like shape, fold it in half and place it up the bleeding nostril. Although this might be an unattractive fashion statement, you can now use both hands while you wait for your nosebleed to stop.

    Tips

    • Be gentle on your body while you wait for your nosebleed to heal. Do not go jogging in the snow, don't lift heavy weights and avoid the nearest Kleenex for at least an hour.

      If your nosebleed is a persisting problem, the Mayo Clinic recommends getting examined by a doctor---cauterizing, or using a laser to burn the vessel into submission, could be a good option to prevent nosebleeds.

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