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Nosebleeds (cont.)

Most people can be seen and discharged from a doctor's office or from an emergency department after treatment for a nosebleed. If a nasal packing has been placed, the patient should not try to remove the packing themselves. The patient needs to be seen again, usually within 2-3 days, at which time the packing will be removed by a health care practitioner.

Try to avoid any further irritation of the nose. Do not blow the nose. Try not to sneeze or cough, if possible. Avoid any strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or exercise.

If possible, try not to take any medications that may interfere with normal blood clotting. These medications may include aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve or Naprosyn). If the patient takes these medications, or others such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) for a chronic medical condition, consult with a doctor. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken for fever or pain.