RFSymptoms: Safety netting advice
ChildrenNosebleed
DATE LAST REVIEWED: 05/11/2026
When to seek further review
- For another nosebleed, sit upright, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not keep releasing it to check.
- Arrange GP review for repeated nosebleeds, blood-thinning medicine, a bleeding disorder, or new paleness, palpitations or breathlessness.
- A child under 2 years old who has a nosebleed should be assessed by a GP.
- If unsure whether bleeding is controlled, call NHS 111. Do not delay emergency help for the signs below.
- Do not wait for the suggested review time if symptoms become worse, new symptoms appear, or you are worried.
- Contact your GP when the surgery is open. If it is closed, you cannot get the help you need, or you are unsure what to do, call NHS 111. You can call even if you are not sure whether the symptoms are serious.
When to get emergency help
(Immediately dial 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department)
- Bleeding continuing after 10 to 15 minutes of uninterrupted firm pressure.
- Heavy bleeding, or swallowing enough blood to cause vomiting.
- Bleeding after a blow to the head.
- Weakness, significant dizziness, fainting or difficulty breathing with a nosebleed.
- Severe difficulty breathing, pauses in breathing, grunting, or the skin pulling in deeply under or between the ribs.
- Being very difficult to wake or unresponsive.
- Being unusually floppy, confused or not responding as usual.
- Blue, grey, very pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue.
How to spot sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can get worse quickly. If someone is seriously unwell and may have sepsis, call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not wait for every sign, a high temperature or a rash.
An unwell child under 5 who has not had a pee or wet nappy for 12 hours needs emergency assessment. If you are unsure and there are no emergency signs, call NHS 111 for advice.
