Should I tilt my head back during a nosebleed?

No. Lean forward so blood does not run down the throat.

Where exactly should I pinch?

Pinch the soft part just above the nostrils, below the hard bridge, continuously for 10 to 15 minutes.

Why do nosebleeds keep happening?

Dryness, nose picking, forceful blowing and medicines are common causes. Recurrent episodes should be discussed with a GP.

Nosebleed: What It Means & When to See a GP

What could nosebleed mean?

Sit upright, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for 10 to 15 minutes while breathing through your mouth. Spit out blood rather than swallowing it. Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy, follows a major injury, causes weakness or breathing difficulty, or continues after repeated firm pressure.

First aid

Sit down, lean forward, open the mouth and pinch the soft nose. Keep steady pressure for the full interval and place a cool pack over the nose if comfortable.

After bleeding stops

Avoid picking or blowing the nose, lying flat, hot drinks, alcohol, heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 24 hours.

Recurrent nosebleeds

A GP may review nasal irritation, blood pressure, medicines and bleeding history. A specialist can cauterise a visible bleeding point when appropriate.

Common questions about nosebleed

Should I tilt my head back during a nosebleed?: No. Lean forward so blood does not run down the throat.
Where exactly should I pinch?: Pinch the soft part just above the nostrils, below the hard bridge, continuously for 10 to 15 minutes.
Why do nosebleeds keep happening?: Dryness, nose picking, forceful blowing and medicines are common causes. Recurrent episodes should be discussed with a GP.

Sources

NHS — Nosebleed

How we reviewed this page

Medically reviewed by the HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel

First published: 1 August 2026
Medically reviewed: 1 August 2026
Next review due: 1 August 2029 or sooner if NHS or NICE guidance changes

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team. Published by HealthAnswers (Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd). How we review content · Report a problem with this page