Everyone gets a nosebleed at some point, and most stop within minutes. But in rare cases, they can signal a serious health emergency.

What Causes Nosebleeds

A nosebleed, or epistaxis, happens when the tiny blood vessels inside your nose rupture. Common triggers include:

• Dry air or allergies
• Nose picking (especially in children)
• Colds or sinus infections
• Forceful blowing
• Overuse of nasal sprays

Less common — but more dangerous — causes include very high blood pressure, blood-thinning medications, clotting disorders, intranasal drug use (such as cocaine), or even nasal tumors.

Two Types of Nosebleeds

• Anterior (front of the nose): Most common and usually harmless.
• Posterior (deeper in the nasal cavity): Less common, often more serious, and harder to stop.

How to Stop a Nosebleed

• Sit upright and lean forward.
• Pinch the soft part of the nose (just above the nostrils) firmly for 10–15 minutes without letting go.
• Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose.
• Use a decongestant spray before applying pressure, if available.
   
• Never tilt your head back — this can cause blood to flow into the throat and lead to choking.

When to Call 911 or See a Doctor

Seek immediate care if a nosebleed:

• Lasts longer than 15–20 minutes or keeps coming back.
• Produces a large amount of bright red blood.
• Results from facial trauma or a possible fracture.
• Causes choking or difficulty breathing.
• Occurs while on blood thinners or with uncontrolled high blood pressure.