Read about the causes of nosebleeds, how to treat them at home and when you should get medical advice. Most nosebleeds are minor and go away with at-home care. But if bleeding is severe or you have other symptoms (like vomiting or trouble breathing), you should go to the emergency room. The most common cause of nosebleeds is the drying of the nasal membranes. If a person is prone to recurrent or frequent nosebleeds, it is often helpful to lubricate the nose with an ointment of some type. Nosebleeds usually involve one nostril, but occasionally both nostrils are involved. If one nostril becomes partially blocked with a blood clot, the blood might flow out the other nostril or down the back of the throat. Although nosebleeds can appear dramatic, they are rarely life-threatening; most resolve without medical intervention, but posterior or severe bleeds may require urgent care. When should you worry about a nosebleed? Seek medical care for nosebleeds that last longer than 20 minutes or happen often enough to interfere with your life. Most nosebleeds are not serious and can usually be stopped with first aid. Pinch the soft part of the nose for 10-20 minutes while leaning forward. See a doctor for recurrent nosebleeds or if a child under two has one. Go to A&E if bleeding doesn't stop after 10-15 minutes or you feel unwell. Nosebleeds usually are not serious and can be stopped by leaning forward and pinching the nostrils. Seek emergency help if your nosebleeds for more than 30 minutes or you lose a cup of blood or more. When to see a doctor Most nosebleeds aren't serious. They typically stop on their own or with the use of self-care steps. Although nosebleeds can cause concern, the amount of blood lost typically is less than it might seem. Nosebleeds usually aren’t serious, but knowing how to stop the bleeding and treat your symptoms is important. Learn how to prevent and treat nosebleeds.