The vast majority of nosebleeds are related to dryness of the front portion of the nasal septum (the midline partition between the right and left nasal cavities). This area (Kiesselbach’s plexus) is very vascular and prone to bleeding in dry climates such as Calgary.
Bleeding following nasal or sinus surgery is expected, and the advice below to treat nosebleeds can be very helpful if there is excessive or concerning bleeding. If the bleeding is significant despite these interventions, please proceed to the closest emergency department.
To Prevent Nosebleeds
Have a humidifier by the bedside, turn up furnace humidifier
Avoid trauma (no digital trauma/nose picking, no q-tips)
Over the counter topical humidification products once or twice daily:
Saline sinus rinse or spray (Neil Med or equivalent)
Nasal lubricant (i.e. Naso-gel - Put pea sized amount up both nostrils, press into septum)
Avoid Vaseline or other petroleum based products
To Treat Nosebleeds
Pinch the nose closed, putting firm pressure on soft tissue part of the nose
Wait 15 minutes, without releasing pressure
Spray Otrivin Decongestant (Xylometazoline) up affected nostril x 3
Repeat x 3 if continued bleeding
Go to the nearest Emergency Department if bleeding does not stop after repeating pressure/ Otrivin sprays