A nosebleed, or epistaxis, often leaves behind dried blood and crusting that can be uncomfortable. While the initial urge is to clean the area immediately, the priority must be extreme gentleness to avoid disturbing the newly formed clot and triggering re-bleeding. The delicate blood vessels inside the nasal lining are highly vulnerable to irritation and trauma. Cleaning must be approached with patience, understanding that the primary goal is maintaining the integrity of the healing tissue.
Gentle Cleaning Techniques for the Exterior
Removing dried blood from the skin around the nostrils requires a delicate touch to prevent the transfer of force inside the nose. Start by moistening a soft cloth or a cotton pad with lukewarm water. The warmth helps to soften the dried residue without causing discomfort. Gently dab the stained areas on the upper lip and the skin directly surrounding the nostril openings. Avoid any scrubbing motion, as friction can easily irritate the skin. If necessary, a mild, non-scented soap can be used sparingly on the outer skin, but ensure no soap enters the nasal cavity.
Safe Methods for Clearing Nasal Passages
Clearing internal dried matter or clots from the nasal passages requires softening the residue instead of aggressively removing it. Aggressive actions like forced nose blowing, picking, or scraping are highly likely to disrupt the healing process and cause the nose to bleed again. The nasal mucosa, where most nosebleeds originate, is thin and easily damaged by mechanical force.
Saline solutions are the preferred method for internal cleaning, as they help to moisturize and loosen dried residue. Use an over-the-counter saline nasal spray to introduce a gentle mist into the passages several times a day. For deeper cleaning, nasal irrigation devices, such as a Neti pot or a squeeze bottle, can be used with a sterile saline solution. The fluid washes through the passages, softening and carrying away the internal crusts without scraping the lining.
When using any irrigation method, the solution should be lukewarm, and it is imperative to use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water to prevent introducing harmful microorganisms. Another effective, non-contact method is using steam, such as from a hot shower or a humidifier, to naturally humidify the nasal passages. Increased humidity helps the dried blood and mucus detach from the nasal walls over time, allowing them to clear naturally.
Warning Signs and When to Stop Cleaning
Cease all cleaning efforts immediately if any warning signs of re-bleeding or irritation occur. Even a slight pink tinge on the cloth or a feeling of fresh moisture inside the nostril means the healing clot has been disturbed. If cleaning triggers a full nosebleed, revert to the standard first-aid procedure of leaning forward and pinching the soft part of the nose for 15 minutes.
Cleaning should be postponed, and professional medical advice sought, if the nosebleed was severe, recurrent, or required medical treatment such as nasal packing. A persistent, complete blockage that does not clear after a few days of gentle saline treatment may indicate a large, stubborn clot that should be managed by a healthcare provider. Furthermore, seek medical attention if you develop signs of infection, such as:
- Fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Increased pain.
- Discharge that is thick, yellow, or foul-smelling.