Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are common. Dryness, local irritation, minor injury and some medicines can contribute. Most settle with first aid; recurrent or heavy bleeding needs medical assessment.
What to do during a nosebleed
1. Sit down and lean forward. Breathe through your mouth. Spit out blood that reaches your mouth or throat rather than swallowing it.
2. Pinch the soft part of your nose. Compress both nostrils below the bony bridge for 10–15 minutes without releasing. Use a timer and do not stop early to check.
3. Seek urgent assessment if bleeding continues. If correct pressure for 10–15 minutes does not stop the bleeding, get urgent medical help.
When to call emergency services
Call 112 in Italy and the EU for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, severe weakness or fainting, or a serious injury. Do not drive yourself if you feel weak or dizzy.
What to avoid and what to do afterwards
Do not tilt your head back, lie flat or put tissues or cotton into your nostrils. For 24 hours avoid nose blowing or picking, alcohol, very hot drinks and strenuous activity.
Do not stop blood-thinning medicines without medical advice. If you take them and bleeding continues, contact a clinician promptly. Recurrent nosebleeds should be assessed by an ENT specialist.
Assessment and treatment
An ENT examination, including nasal endoscopy when appropriate, can locate the bleeding point and investigate recurrent episodes. Treatments may include local care, cautery or nasal packing. Persistent or severe cases may need hospital treatment. These procedures are performed by healthcare professionals.
Locations and booking · Leggi in italiano
First-aid sources: NHS, Cambridge University Hospitals and East of England Ambulance Service. Updated 26 October 2026.
General patient information by Dr. Puya Dehgani-Mobaraki. It does not replace individual medical assessment.