How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Nosebleed

Audience: adult

Nosebleeds are common and often not serious, but they can be worrying. A telemedicine visit can help you understand the cause and get advice on how to manage it. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or medications. They may guide you through simple steps to stop the bleeding and suggest home care tips. Telemedicine is useful for mild or occasional nosebleeds, but if the bleeding is heavy, lasts longer than 20 minutes, or you have other symptoms like dizziness or difficulty breathing, you should seek in-person emergency care. Preparing for your telemedicine visit by having a list of your symptoms, medications, and any questions ready can help make the visit effective. After the visit, follow the advice given and watch for any warning signs that need urgent attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Bleeding that lasts longer than 20 minutes despite applying pressure — seek emergency care immediately.
• Feeling weak, dizzy, or short of breath during or after a nosebleed — call emergency services.
• Frequent nosebleeds occurring more than once a week or associated with bruising or bleeding elsewhere — arrange prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild or occasional nosebleeds that stop with basic first aid.
• Advice on prevention and home care for nosebleeds.
• Assessment of symptoms and medical history related to nosebleeds.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or uncontrolled bleeding lasting more than 20 minutes.
• Nosebleeds accompanied by signs of shock, such as fainting or difficulty breathing.
• Frequent or recurrent nosebleeds needing physical examination or specialized tests.

What to expect during your telemedicine visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about how often your nosebleeds occur, how long they last, and what you do to stop them. They may inquire about any recent injuries, allergies, medications, or health conditions. You might be asked to show your nose or the inside of your nostrils using your camera if possible. The provider will give advice on managing bleeding and preventing future episodes.

When telemedicine is appropriate for nosebleeds

Telemedicine works well for mild or occasional nosebleeds that stop on their own or with simple first aid. It can help you understand possible causes like dry air, allergies, or minor irritation. You can get guidance on home care and when to seek further help.

When to seek in-person care immediately

If your nosebleed is heavy, does not stop after 20 minutes of applying pressure, or if you feel weak, dizzy, or have trouble breathing, you should get emergency care. Also, seek in-person help if nosebleeds happen frequently, are associated with other bleeding, or if you have a known bleeding disorder.

How to prepare for your telemedicine visit

Before your visit, gather information about your nosebleeds such as frequency, duration, and triggers. Have a list of your current medications and any medical conditions. Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection. Have tissues and a flashlight ready in case you need to show your nose.

Tips for managing nosebleeds at home

Sit upright and lean slightly forward to avoid swallowing blood. Pinch the soft part of your nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid picking or blowing your nose after bleeding stops. Use a humidifier if your environment is dry. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a day after a nosebleed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note how often and how long your nosebleeds last.
• List any medications you take, including blood thinners.
• Have a flashlight and tissues ready for the visit.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on managing bleeding and prevention.
• Use a humidifier or nasal saline sprays if recommended.
• Avoid nose picking and strenuous activities after a nosebleed.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new bleeding episodes.
• Seek in-person care if red flags appear after the visit.

FAQs

Can I stop a nosebleed myself before the telemedicine visit?

Yes. Sit upright, lean slightly forward, and pinch the soft part of your nose firmly for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid leaning back or lying down, as this can cause swallowing blood.

What causes frequent nosebleeds?

Frequent nosebleeds may be caused by dry air, allergies, nasal irritation, infections, or underlying health conditions. A healthcare provider can help identify the cause during your visit.

Is it safe to use nasal sprays during a nosebleed?

Generally, avoid nasal sprays during an active nosebleed unless advised by your healthcare provider. After bleeding stops, saline sprays may help keep nasal passages moist.

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

Go to the emergency room if bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes despite applying pressure, if you feel weak or dizzy, or if you have difficulty breathing.

Can medications cause nosebleeds?

Yes, some medications like blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs can increase the risk of nosebleeds. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take.

Sources

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

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