Stop the nosebleed now:
- 1Sit upright, lean slightly FORWARD (not back)
- 2Pinch the SOFT part of the nose (below the bony bridge)
- 3Hold firmly for a FULL 10 minutes — do not peek
- 4Breathe through the mouth
Need more help?
Answer these questions if the nosebleed is concerning you.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Call 911 or go to the ER if you see any of these signs
- Bleeding for more than 20 minutes with firm pressure
- After a head or face injury
- Child is dizzy, pale, or weak
- Bleeding from gums, skin, or other places too
- Very heavy gushing blood
- On blood-thinning medications
Normal Nosebleed Symptoms
These are usually fine to manage at home
- Stops within 10-20 minutes with proper pressure
- Caused by dry air, nose picking, or a minor bump
- Child feels fine otherwise
- Light to moderate flow from one nostril
- Happens occasionally in dry weather
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tilt my child's head back?
No. Tilting the head back causes blood to run down the throat, which can cause nausea and vomiting. Instead, lean slightly FORWARD and let the blood drip into a tissue or bowl.
Should I pack tissue inside the nose?
No. Packing tissue inside the nostril can stick to the clot and restart bleeding when removed. Just pinch the outside of the soft part of the nose firmly.
My child gets nosebleeds all the time - should I be worried?
Frequent nosebleeds are very common in children, especially in dry weather or if they pick their nose. Try daily saline spray and Vaseline at bedtime. See your doctor if they happen more than once a week - a simple cauterization can fix a fragile blood vessel.
How much blood loss is dangerous?
It looks like a lot more than it is. A few tablespoons of blood spread on clothing or tissue looks alarming but is not dangerous. Signs of significant blood loss: dizziness, pale skin, rapid heartbeat. These are rare with nosebleeds.
This guide is for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the ER.