In daily life, many people may adopt common methods to stop a nosebleed, such as tilting their head back, stuffing tissues into their nose, or splashing cold water on their forehead and neck. However, not all of these methods are correct. Here’s a detailed analysis of these nosebleed control methods.

Tilting the Head Back: A Mistaken Approach

When people experience a nosebleed, they often instinctively tilt their head back to prevent blood from flowing out of the nose. However, this is actually a very dangerous practice. Tilting the head back only causes the blood to flow towards the throat and then be expelled from the mouth. While this may seem to reduce the visible bleeding, it poses significant risks. If the blood is not expelled from the mouth and is instead inhaled into the respiratory tract, it could lead to serious, life-threatening complications. Therefore, tilting the head back should never be used as a method to stop a nosebleed.

Using Tissues: Not a Recommended Method

Another common practice is to use tissues to stuff the nostrils to stop the bleeding. However, doctors do not recommend this approach because tissues can easily tear, leaving fragments in the nasal cavity, which could be accidentally inhaled, especially by children. A better option is to use cotton or soft tissues. While this method can temporarily block the blood from flowing out, its compressive effect is weak, and it can lead to the formation of blood clots. These clots may, in turn, activate the fibrinolytic system under the clot, causing the bleeding to resume.

Correct Self-Help Method: Nasal Wing Compression

For self-help, you can try compressing the nasal wings (the sides of the nose) firmly. This method effectively compresses the bleeding point. Ideally, a piece of cotton or soft tissue should be inserted slightly deeper into the nasal cavity, and then the nasal wings should be pressed firmly, especially in children, targeting the Kiesselbach's plexus (an area in the front part of the nasal septum). This compression can help form a blood clot in the artery, providing temporary relief from bleeding. It is generally recommended to apply pressure for about 15 minutes. If the bleeding is from the front part of the nose, this method can be quite effective.

Cold Water Sprays: An Auxiliary Self-Help Measure

In addition, spraying cold water on the forehead or applying a cold compress can be a helpful self-help method. The principle behind this is that the cold compress can cause the facial blood vessels to constrict, thereby reducing the amount of bleeding and easing symptoms. However, this method is less effective in stopping the bleeding compared to the nasal wing compression method and is mainly used for temporary relief before reaching the hospital.

Medical Treatment: Professional Hemostasis Measures

If these self-help measures do not completely stop the bleeding, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. Doctors can use more precise nasal packing methods to stop the bleeding. Typically, the packing is removed after 48 hours, by which time the blood vessels have naturally healed, resolving the bleeding issue.

In summary, when faced with a nosebleed, avoid using common methods such as tilting the head back or stuffing tissues into the nose. Instead, use correct self-help techniques like nasal wing compression, and seek professional medical assistance as soon as possible.