They can be scary, but nosebleeds
are common in children and usually aren't serious. Most stop on their own and can
be cared for at home. Nosebleeds happen more often in winter and when the air is dry.
What to Do
- Have your child sit up with his or her head tilted slightly forward. Do
not have your child lean back — this may cause gagging, coughing, or
vomiting.
- Pinch the soft part of the nose at the bottom of the nostrils for at least 10
minutes.
Get Medical Care if Your Child:
- has nosebleeds often
- may have put something in the nose
- bruises easily or has heavy bleeding from minor wounds
- recently started a new medicine
Get Emergency Medical Care if Bleeding:
- is heavy
- happens along with dizziness or paleness
- continues after two or three times of applying pressure for 10 minutes each
- is the result of a blow
to the head or a fall
Think Prevention!
Keep the inside of your child's nose moist with saline (saltwater) nasal spray
or gel, or dab petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment gently around the opening of
the nostrils. You also can use a humidifier in your child's bedroom. Discourage nose
picking and keep kids' fingernails short.
