Nosebleed stopping: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services or go to an emergency department for:

   • Heavy bleeding that makes breathing difficult
   • Fainting, confusion, severe weakness, or chest pain
   • Bleeding after a major facial or head injury
   • Vomiting a large amount of swallowed blood
   • Rapidly worsening bleeding while taking a blood thinner

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek urgent medical assessment if bleeding returns and does not stop after continuous firm pressure, or if blood is repeatedly running into your throat.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   For routine advice, contact your healthcare team if you have increasing crusting, persistent nasal discomfort, questions about packing care, or repeated small nosebleeds.

   Also call if packing comes out earlier than planned.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Nosebleed stopping. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.