RFSymptoms: Safety netting advice
AdultsNosebleed
DATE LAST REVIEWED: 05/11/2026
When to seek further review
- For another nosebleed, sit upright, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not keep releasing it to check.
- Arrange GP review for repeated nosebleeds, blood-thinning medicine, a bleeding disorder, or new paleness, palpitations or breathlessness.
- A child under 2 years old who has a nosebleed should be assessed by a GP.
- If unsure whether bleeding is controlled, call NHS 111. Do not delay emergency help for the signs below.
- Do not wait for the suggested review time if symptoms become worse, new symptoms appear, or you are worried.
- If you need medical advice and are unsure which service can help, call NHS 111. This includes when your GP is closed or you cannot get the help you need. NHS 111 can direct you to an appropriate local service. You can call even if you are not sure whether symptoms are serious.
When to get emergency help
(Immediately dial 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department)
- Bleeding continuing after 10 to 15 minutes of uninterrupted firm pressure.
- Heavy bleeding, or swallowing enough blood to cause vomiting.
- Bleeding after a blow to the head.
- Weakness, significant dizziness, fainting or difficulty breathing with a nosebleed.
- Severe difficulty breathing, such as gasping or being unable to speak normally.
- New confusion or not making sense when speaking.
- Being very difficult to wake.
- Collapse or loss of consciousness.
- Blue, grey, unusually pale or blotchy skin or lips, especially when feeling very unwell.
How to spot sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can get worse quickly. If someone is seriously unwell and may have sepsis, call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not wait for every sign, a high temperature or a rash.
An unwell child under 5 who has not had a pee or wet nappy for 12 hours needs emergency assessment. If you are unsure and there are no emergency signs, call NHS 111 for advice.


Sources
- NHS - Nosebleedhttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nosebleed/
- NHS - Sepsishttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis/
- NHS - When to use NHS 111https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/