Winter Nosebleeds: Why They Happen & How to Stop Them

Von Vergara
Oct 13
3 min read

When the air turns dry and cool during winter, nosebleeds can become more common especially in places with indoor heating or sudden temperature changes. While an occasional nosebleed is usually harmless, frequent ones may signal an underlying nasal or sinus condition that needs medical attention.

Why Nosebleeds Are Common in Winter

Cold, dry air can irritate and dry out the lining inside your nose. When this delicate tissue becomes cracked, small blood vessels near the surface can rupture easily—especially if you blow your nose too hard or pick at dry nasal crusts.Indoor heating systems and low humidity make this worse, stripping moisture from the air and your nasal passages.

Other common causes include:

Allergies or sinus infections that inflame nasal tissues.
Frequent nose-blowing during colds or flu season.
Nasal sprays or medications that dry out the nose.
Structural issues such as a deviated septum.
Blood-thinning medications that make bleeding more likely.

How to Stop a Nosebleed Safely

If you experience a nosebleed:

Sit upright and lean forward slightly. This prevents swallowing blood.
Pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bridge) for 10–15 minutes without checking.
Apply a cool compress to the bridge of your nose to constrict blood vessels.
Avoid tilting your head back, lying down, or blowing your nose afterward.

If bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes or occurs frequently, it’s important to see an ENT. Persistent or severe nosebleeds may require a medical procedure such as cauterization or nasal packing, and could indicate underlying health issues.

How to Prevent Winter Nosebleeds

Prevention starts with keeping your nasal passages moist and your environment balanced. Try these ENT-recommended tips:

Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to dry air.
Apply a saline nasal spray or gel regularly.
Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
Avoid excessive use of decongestant sprays.
Gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly inside your nostrils before bed.

If your nosebleeds are linked to allergies or sinus issues, treating the underlying condition can significantly reduce recurrence.

When to See an ENT

If nosebleeds become frequent, occur on one side only, or happen without clear cause, schedule a visit with an ENT specialist. Persistent bleeding may point to chronic sinus problems, deviated septum, or inflamed nasal passages that require medical care.

👉 Don’t ignore recurring winter nosebleeds — even in Florida’s mild climate. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and ensures your nasal passages stay healthy year-round.

Related Posts You May Find Helpful

These resources are reviewed by ENT specialists and backed by trusted medical research, helping you make informed decisions about your ear, nose, and throat health.

Schedule a Consultation with an ENT Specialist

If nosebleeds keep coming back, or if you’re unsure why they happen, it’s best to consult an ENT. Our specialists at ENT Family can identify the cause—whether it’s allergies, sinus issues, or structural concerns—and provide effective treatment for long-term relief.

Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368

Email: info@entfamily.com

Schedule Appointment

References

Mayo Clinic. Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) — Symptoms and Causes.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nosebleeds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351443
Cleveland Clinic. Nosebleeds (Epistaxis): Causes, Prevention & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10850-nosebleeds
American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). Nosebleeds (Epistaxis). https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/nosebleed/
ENT Family. Nasal Obstruction. https://www.entfamily.com/nasal-obstruction

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