Health Resources

Nose Bleeds (Children)

2024/05/30
What Is Nosebleed

Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are common occurrences in children where bleeding happens from the nose.

Causes of Nosebleed

Nosebleeds typically result from dryness in the nasal lining, combined with actions like rubbing and picking at the nose, especially when it’s blocked or itchy. Vigorous nose-blowing can also cause bleeding. These incidents are more frequent in children with nasal allergies.

Diagnosis And Treatment Options For Nosebleed

To manage a nosebleed at home, follow these steps:

Lean forward and spit out blood: Sit your child upright and lean forward to prevent swallowing blood, which can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting. Have your child spit out any blood that drips into the mouth.

Pinch the soft part of the nose

Pinch the soft part of the nose: Firmly pinch the soft part of the nose above the nostrils for 10 minutes without releasing the pressure to check for bleeding. During this time, your child should breathe through their mouth.

If the bleeding persists beyond 10 minutes, seek medical attention while continuing to apply pressure.

Tips For Taking Care Of Children With Nosebleeds

What should I take note of?

  • Applying a cold washcloth to the forehead, the back of the neck, the bridge of the nose or under the upper lip does not stop a nosebleed.
  • Pressing on the bony part of the nose is ineffective.
  • Avoid packing the nose with any material, as bleeding often recurs upon removal.
  • Once bleeding stops, prevent re-bleeding by avoiding nose-picking or  forceful blowing.
  • If necessary, instruct your child to gently blow their nose.

How can nosebleeds be prevented?

  • Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the nasal septum twice daily.
  • Use a humidifier at night in the bedroom.
  • Apply warm water drops or saltwater nasal spray before blowing a stuffy nose.
  • Avoid aspirin, as it can prolong bleeding duration.
  • For nasal allergies, antihistamines may be beneficial.

When should I bring my child to the Children's Emergency?

Seek immediate medical care if the bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of direct pressure.

Last updated on
Best viewed with Chrome 79.0, Edge 112.0, Firefox 61.0, Safari 11
National University Health System
  • National University Hospital
  • Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
  • Alexandra Hospital
  • Jurong Community Hospital
  • National University Polyclinics
  • Jurong Medical Centre
  • National University Cancer Institute, Singapore
  • National University Heart Centre, Singapore
  • National University Centre for Oral Health, Singapore
  • NUHS Diagnostics
  • NUHS Pharmacy
  • Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
  • Faculty of Dentistry
  • Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health
Back to Top