Bleeding From Special Sites

Nosebleed

How to treat nosebleeds in adults

1. Lean forward and spit blood into a handkerchief or some other receptacle.
2. Pinch the nose just below the hard bit at its top and apply firm pressure for 10 minutes (this is the amount of time it takes for a clot to form). If the bleeding has not stopped after 10 minutes, apply pressure for two further periods of 10 minutes. If it is still bleeding then either take or send the casualty to hospital.

Bleeding from the ear

If the blood from the ear is thin and watery then it is likely that there has been some damage to the skull, and possibly the brain, as the blood is mixing with the fluid that cushions the brain. This is a very serious injury and the emergency services should be called as soon as possible. Keep the casualty as still as you can and gently rest the head, injured ear down, with a clean pad held over the ear for the blood to drain into. Do not tie this pad in place. Keep a check on the casualty's airway and breathing and be prepared to resuscitate if necessary.

If the blood is bright red and is accompanied by earache, deafness, a sudden change in pressure or an explosion then it is likely to be a burst eardrum. Again, keep the injured ear downwards, hold a clean pad in place and seek medical attention.

Bleeding from the mouth

If bleeding from the mouth follows a direct impact to the face it is likely that the bleed has been caused by damage to the teeth, gums or tongue. There may also be damage to the jaw and cheekbones.

Bright red and frothy bleeding from the mouth may be a sign of damage to the lungs.

Dark red blood being coughed up from the mouth may be a sign of a burst stomach ulcer. Seek urgent medical attention.

Bleeding from the vagina

The most likely reason for vaginal bleeding is menstruation (periods). lf this is the case and the bleed is accompanied by cramps then a woman may wish to take her normal painkillers.

A woman complaining of vaginal bleeding not related to her periods should be given privacy and sensitive handling, with gentle questioning to determine the cause. For all vaginal bleeding, provide sanitary pads or a clean towel where possible. Where the bleeding is potentially pregnancy-related, do not dispose of old pads of any blood loss.

Instead, move these discreetly away from the woman to be checked by medical staff.

Bleeding in early pregnancy may be an indication of a miscarriage, but there are a number of other potential causes. Make the woman comfortable and seek advice from her midwife or doctor. If the bleeding is severe and/or she is displaying signs of shock, call an ambulance.

In later pregnancy a bright red, painless bleed may indicate a serious problem with the placenta. Make the woman comfortable, call an ambulance and treat for shock.

If the bleeding is as a result of an accident or recent assault, call an ambulance and treat for shock.

Bleeding from the anus

Bleeding from the anus may be bright red and fresh looking. If it follows a recent accident, this may indicate injury to the anus or lower bowel. Treat for shock as appropriate and seek medical help.

Black, tarry blood has been partially digested and indicates a potential injury to the upper bowel. Again, treat for shock as appropriate and seek medical help.

Bleeding from the urethra