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.
