It’s not uncommon for seniors to suffer from nosebleeds. Fortunately, most are not serious and can usually be stopped with home treatment. To stop a nosebleed:
- Sit up straight and tip your head slightly forward; do not tilt your head back. Spit out any blood that gathers in your mouth and throat rather than swallowing it.
- Use your thumb and forefinger to firmly pinch the soft part of your nose shut, that usually puts direct pressure on the area of bleeding
- Apply an ice pack to your nose and cheeks. Cold will constrict the blood vessels and help stop the bleeding.
- Keep pinching your nose for a full 10 minutes. Most nosebleeds will stop after 10 to 20 minutes of direct pressure.
- Using a humidifier and even an ointment inside along the septum (center divider) of the nose can help prevent the dryness that many times causes the bleeding.
If you have frequent nosebleeds, talk to your doctor. It could be the sign of a more serious problem.
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