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Answer my health question: How do I stop a nosebleed?
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Everyone has experienced a nosebleed at some time or another. Most are caused simply by either physical injury, such as a blow to the nose, scratching oneself with a fingrnail, or even by blowing your nose too hard. Now that the weather is getting colder and people are turning on the heat in their homes, the chance for excessive dryness may even cause the nasal membranes to crack, causing nosebleeds as well. These are all called anterior types of nosebleeds, meaning the blood flows from the front of the nose. And despite the fact that they mean seem somewhat frightening while happening, they are not serious.
To stop an anterior nosebleed one should sit up and lean forward (do not tilt the head back). Blow out all the clots from both nostrils and then put a piece of gauze or cotton into the side that is bleeding. Pinch all the soft parts of the nose together with your thumb and index finger and hold it like that for about five minutes. You should also apply some ice or a cold washcloth to the nose, cheek and back of the neck. Then lie down and relax. Some people also recommend applying either a small dab of vitamin E or petroleum jelly to the inside of the nose once the bleeding has stopped, and then packing it with cotton for awhile.
To combat excessive dryness of the nasal membranes try using a humidifyer. You can also apply aloe vera or comfrey ointment directly inside the nose to ease any soreness.
A second type of nosebleed, called a posterior nosebleed, however, can be more serious. This kind comes from the back of the nose. The blood runs into the back of the mouth and down the throat no matter what position one is in. If severe, it can flow in both directions. The elderly (especially those with high bloodpressure) are the primary sufferers from posterior nosebleeds, and when they occur, it is best to seek a doctor's care right away.
People who experience frequent nosebleeds should be sure they are getting enough vitamin K in their diet. This nutrient is essential for normal clotting and can be found in such foods as oatmeal, egg yolks, broccoli, dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and brussel sprouts, liver, rye and alfalfa. Those who use synthetic vitamin K, however, should be aware that antibiotics often interfere with its absorption.
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