To stop a broken nose from bleeding, you'll need to apply direct pressure and take other measures to manage the bleeding.
Here's a breakdown of how to handle a nosebleed, which is a common symptom of a broken nose:
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Sit Down and Lean Forward: Sit upright and lean forward slightly. This position helps prevent you from swallowing blood, which can cause nausea.
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Pinch Your Nose: Firmly pinch the soft part of your nose, just below the bony ridge, using your thumb and index finger. Make sure to pinch both nostrils, even if the bleeding is only from one side.
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Maintain Pressure: Keep pinching your nose continuously for a full 15 minutes. It's important to maintain constant pressure; releasing it too early can restart the bleeding. Use a clock to time yourself accurately.
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Breathe Through Your Mouth: Breathe through your mouth while pinching your nose.
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Check and Repeat (If Needed): After 15 minutes, release the pressure slowly. If the bleeding has stopped, you're good to go. If the bleeding continues, repeat the pinching process for another 15 minutes.
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Ice Pack (Optional): Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the bridge of your nose can help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding and swelling.
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Swallowing Blood: If blood drips down the back of your throat, spit it out instead of swallowing it. However, swallowing small amounts of blood is generally harmless.
Important Considerations:
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Avoid Picking or Blowing Your Nose: For the next several hours after the bleeding stops, avoid picking or blowing your nose, as this can dislodge any clots that have formed and restart the bleeding.
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Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor immediately if:
- The bleeding doesn't stop after 30 minutes of continuous pressure.
- The bleeding is heavy or frequent.
- The nosebleed was caused by a significant injury, such as a fall or blow to the face.
- You have difficulty breathing.
- You have other symptoms, such as a severe headache, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness.
- You take blood-thinning medications.
While these steps can help stop the bleeding, a broken nose requires medical evaluation to assess the extent of the damage and determine if any further treatment, such as setting the nose, is needed.
