Obviously, if the patient is lying down, even the anterior nosebleeds seem to flow in both directions, especially if the patient is coughing or blowing his nose. Nevertheless, it is important to try to make the distinction since posterior nosebleeds are often more severe and almost always require the physician's care. Posterior nosebleeds are more likely to occur in older people, persons with high blood pressure, and in cases of injury to the nose or face. Nosebleeds in children are almost always of the anterior type. Anterior nosebleeds are common in dry climates or during the winter months when the dry air parches the nasal membranes so that they crust, crack, and bleed.
Many physicians suggest any of the following lubricating creams or ointments.
Borofax ointment, A and D Ointment, Mentholatum, Vicks Vaporub, and Vaseline. Up to three applications a day may be needed, but usually every night at bedtime is enough. If the nosebleeds persist, you should see your doctor, who may recommend cautery to the blood vessel that is causing the trouble. Press firmly toward the face-compressing the pinched parts of the nose against the bones of the face. Keep head higher than the level of the heart-sit up or lie with head elevated.