The experts have said people should never try this when their nose is bleeding
Medical experts have warned that tilting your head when you have a nosebleed could make it worse, and if you get them frequently, the NHS warn you may need to see a GP. According to @bavariamedic, an Emergency Medical Technician, the expert explains people should never tilt their head back – and it’s a common mistake people make.
In a video on TikTok, which has amassed more than 115.7 million views and almost four million likes, they explain: “If someone has a nosebleed, the most important thing is to avoid tilting their head back. Instead, tilt the head forward to prevent blood from flowing into the throat, which could cause nausea or vomiting.
“Next, apply gentle pressure by pinching the nostrils together to help stop the bleeding. For additional effectiveness, place a cold, wet towel or an ice pack on the back of the neck. This helps constrict the blood vessels and slow down the bleeding.”
NHS Nosebleed Warning
The NHS warn if you have any of the following, see a GP:
- you have symptoms of anaemia – such as a faster heartbeat (palpitations), shortness of breath and skin that is paler than normal for you
- a child under 2 years old has had a nosebleed
- you have regular nosebleeds
- you have a nosebleed and you’re taking a medicine that helps prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
- you have a nosebleed and you have a condition that means your blood cannot clot properly, such as haemophilia
You should call 999 if you have a nosebleed and:
- your nosebleed lasts longer than 10 to 15 minutes
- you’re feeling weak or dizzy
- you’re having difficulty breathing
- you’re swallowing a large amount of blood that makes you vomit
- the bleeding started after a blow to your head
the bleeding seems excessive
Why does my nose bleed?
Sometimes the cause is not known. However the inside of the nose is easy to damage and that’s when nosebleeds happen. This can be caused by:
- blowing your nose too hard
- the inside of your nose being too dry (maybe because of a change in air temperature)
- picking your nose
Nosebleeds that need medical attention can come from deeper inside the nose and usually affect adults. They can be caused by:
Try and avoid doing this 24 hours after a nosebleed
- pick your nose
- blow your nose
- lie down flat
- drink hot drinks or alcohol
- do any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
- pick any scabs
