Nosebleeds are common for most children ages 3 to 10. Nosebleeds are caused by several things, such as having allergies or a cold, living in dry climates, or picking the nose. Although there is no cure for nosebleeds, there are ways to easily treat and prevent them.

How can I treat my child’s nosebleed?

• When your child’s nosebleed begins, be sure to stay calm and comfort your child.

 

• Have your child sit up and lean forward slightly. This is to prevent them from swallowing blood or vomiting. Do NOT have them lay back- this can worsen the bleeding.

 

• Tell them to breathe out of their mouths while lightly pinching their nose for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.

 

• You can apply something cold on the bridge of their nose- no gauze or tissue.

 

• If the bleeding does not stop, repeat the steps.

 

• Be sure to encourage your child to not pick or rub their nose for the following few days.

How can I prevent my child from having nosebleeds?

• Keep your child from rubbing and picking their nose.

 

• Teach your child to blow their nose gently.

 

• Keep clean-filtered humidifiers in different rooms if the air in your home is dry.

 

• Use salt-water nasal sprays (talk to your provider before proceeding).

 

• Rub a thin layer of petroleum jelly or medicated ointment around the rim of their nose.

 

• If your child is in a sport or physically active, have them use protective wear that will prevent head injuries or anything that can cause a nosebleed.

 

• Do not smoke around your child.

Call your provider right away if your child is pale, sweaty, or non-responsive if they have lost a lot of blood, or if their nose is bleeding from a blow to the head.

If you have any questions about how to manage your child’s nosebleeds, please give us a call and schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified providers to help you find the best ways to help at 210-616-0882.