Most of us have experienced a nosebleed at some point in our lives.
And many of us react by tipping our heads back to stop the blood from pouring down our faces.
But according to doctors, this isn’t actually the best way to deal with the problem.
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On Twitter, ER doctor Sam Ghali explained: “If your nose is bleeding, DO NOT TILT YOUR HEAD BACK.
“This just makes the blood drip down the back of your throat and you will then swallow/choke on it.”
Instead, the American health expert recommends angling your face forwards and pinching your nose.
He added: “Pinch the soft part of your nose and TILT YOUR HEAD FORWARD. Please tell your friends about this.”
The NHS offers similar advice on its website, which states: “If you have a nosebleed, you should:
- “Sit down and lean forward, with your head titled forward
- “Pinch your nose just above the nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes
- “Breathe through your mouth.”
It also advises: “Holding an icepack (or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel) on the top of the nose may help reduce the blood flow. But the evidence to show it works is not very strong.”
Nosebleeds are typically nothing to worry about.
But the NHS recommends seeking medical attention if you have a child under the age of two that suffers a nosebleed.
It’s also worth seeking the advice from your local GP if you have regular nosebleeds, symptoms of anaemia or are living with blood conditions such as haemophilia.
Meanwhile, you should go to A&E if your nosebleed lasts longer than 15 minutes or is noticeably excessive.
Vomiting blood, feeling weak or dizzy or struggling to breathe are also signs you need urgent medical care.
For more information, visit the NHS website here.
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