The most common cause of nose bleeding is dry air. During hot months in Kenya, nose bleeding can be a common issue. If you live in an area with a hot and low-humidity climate, stay hydrated and wear a face mask. Research shows that face masks strongly increase the humidity in inhaled air, which can help prevent nose bleeding.

Common Causes of Nose Bleeding

• Picking or poking your nose
• Blowing your nose too hard
• Injuries caused by a fall or getting hit on your nose
• Side effects of some medications, like blood thinners
• Allergies
• High altitudes, where the air is thin

How to Stop Nose Bleeding in 5 Minutes

Most nosebleeds aren’t serious and will stop on their own or by following self-care steps.

• Sit upright and lean forward. By remaining upright, you reduce blood pressure in the veins of your nose. This helps prevent further bleeding. Sitting forward will help you avoid swallowing blood, which can irritate your stomach.
• Gently blow your nose. It will clear out any clotted blood. If you have some, spray a nasal decongestant in the nose.
• Pinch your nose. Use your thumb and index finger to pinch both nostrils shut, even if only one side is bleeding. Use your mouth to breathe. Continue to pinch for five to 10 minutes. This action puts pressure on the bleeding point on the nasal septum and often stops the flow of blood.
• Repeat. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, repeat these steps for up to a total of 15 minutes.

After the bleeding has stopped, to keep it from starting again, don’t pick or blow your nose, and don’t bend down for several hours. Keep your head higher than the level of your heart.

What Should You Not Do During a Nosebleed?

Try not to blow or pick your nose. Also avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, lying flat, and drinking alcohol. Don’t take hot drinks. You may feel crusts from the blood form inside your nose, but you should not use your finger to remove them. They’re a useful part of the healing process.

How to Cure Nose Bleeding Permanently

Some people are prone to nose bleeding. You should see a doctor if:

• You fell or hit your nose on something
• You get nosebleeds often
• Your nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes even after you put pressure on it
• There’s so much bleeding that it’s hard to breathe.
• You’re taking blood thinners. 

If you have a child, trim their fingernails. Keeping fingernails short helps discourage nose picking.