How to prepare for a video visit about Nosebleed (Epistaxis) - Triage

Audience: adult

Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, are common and often not serious. They can happen due to dry air, nose picking, injury, or other causes. Preparing for a video visit about a nosebleed can help you get the best advice from your healthcare provider. During the visit, you can describe your symptoms, show the affected area if possible, and discuss any related health issues. This guide helps you know what information to gather and what to expect. Remember, some nosebleeds may need urgent care, especially if they are heavy, last a long time, or happen with other symptoms. Telemedicine can help assess many nosebleeds but is not a replacement for emergency care when needed. Use this guide to prepare, so your video visit is effective and safe.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes despite applying pressure — seek emergency care immediately.
• Bleeding is heavy, with blood flowing down the back of the throat or causing choking — get urgent medical help.
• Nosebleed occurs after a head injury or is accompanied by weakness, dizziness, or fainting — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing mild to moderate nosebleeds that stop with basic first aid.
• Providing advice on how to manage nosebleeds at home.
• Reviewing medical history and medications that may affect bleeding.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or uncontrolled bleeding requiring immediate physical intervention.
• Nosebleeds after significant trauma or head injury.
• Symptoms suggesting a serious underlying condition like blood disorders or tumors.
• Situations where physical examination or procedures are necessary.

What is a Nosebleed (Epistaxis)?

A nosebleed happens when blood vessels inside your nose break and bleed. It can be caused by dry air, picking your nose, injury, allergies, or infections. Most nosebleeds stop on their own or with simple care at home.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a video visit, your healthcare provider can ask about your symptoms, see your nose if you can show it, and help decide if you need treatment or in-person care. They can guide you on how to stop the bleeding and prevent future nosebleeds.

Information to Have Ready for Your Video Visit

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How to Prepare Your Environment

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What to Expect During the Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask questions about your nosebleed and health history. They may ask you to show your nose on camera. They will advise if you can manage the nosebleed at home or if you need to go to a clinic or emergency room.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.
• Have a tissue or cloth ready in case of bleeding during the visit.
• Prepare answers to questions about your nosebleed history and current symptoms.
• Have a list of your current medications, especially blood thinners.
• If possible, have someone nearby to assist if you feel weak or dizzy.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on how to stop and prevent nosebleeds.
• Avoid picking or blowing your nose forcefully for several days.
• Use a humidifier or saline nasal spray if advised to keep nasal passages moist.
• Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms and seek care if red flags appear.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy in case of severe bleeding.

FAQs

What should I do immediately when I have a nosebleed?

Sit down and lean slightly forward. Pinch the soft part of your nose just below the bony bridge for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing. Avoid lying down or tilting your head back, as this can cause blood to flow down your throat.

Can I use a video visit to get help for my nosebleed?

Yes, telemedicine can help assess many nosebleeds, especially if they stop quickly or are mild. Your provider can guide you on home care and tell you if you need to seek in-person care.

When should I go to the emergency room for a nosebleed?

Seek emergency care if the bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes despite pressure, if bleeding is heavy, if you feel weak or dizzy, or if the nosebleed follows a head injury.

Are there ways to prevent nosebleeds?

Keeping the inside of your nose moist with saline sprays or humidifiers can help. Avoid picking your nose and protect your nose from injury. If you take blood-thinning medications, follow your provider's advice carefully.

What information should I share during my video visit?

Tell your provider when the nosebleed started, how long it lasted, how much blood you lost, any history of nosebleeds, current medications, and any other symptoms you have.

Sources

1. Epistaxis (Nosebleed) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Epistaxis — National Library of Medicine.
4. Nosebleeds — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.