Debunked Myths
Myth:
For nosebleeds, tilt your head back.
The Truth Is:
Lean forward and pinch your nose! Tilting back makes you swallow blood, which can cause nausea.
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What We Know Now:
The old advice to tilt your head back during a nosebleed is dangerously wrong. This method doesn't stop bleeding—it merely redirects blood down your throat. Swallowing significant amounts can irritate your stomach, causing nausea and vomiting. Worse, blood can flow into your windpipe, creating a choking hazard.
The correct first aid is simple: sit upright and lean slightly forward. This position keeps blood out of your throat while allowing it to drain safely. Then pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bony bridge) shut, applying constant pressure for 10-15 minutes. This directly compresses the bleeding vessels at the source.
The head-tilting myth persists because it seems to 'contain the mess,' but it trades a visible problem for invisible internal risks. Proper nosebleed management focuses on controlling the bleeding through direct pressure rather than hiding the evidence. It's a small but important example of how updating our first aid knowledge can prevent unnecessary complications.
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