How to deal with fever and nosebleeds
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
When fever is accompanied by nosebleeds, appropriate measures should be taken, including proper hemostasis, rational cooling, rehydration and electrolyte replacement, avoidance of triggering factors, and monitoring changes in symptoms, aiming to relieve symptoms while investigating the underlying cause. Seek medical attention promptly if fever persists above 38.5°C, nosebleeds recur, or bleeding is excessive.
When fever is accompanied by nosebleeds, it is important to take appropriate measures such as proper hemostasis, rational cooling, replenishment of fluids and electrolytes, avoidance of triggering factors, and monitoring changes in symptoms. Both symptom relief and underlying cause evaluation should be addressed. Seek medical attention promptly if the fever persists above 38.5°C, nosebleeds recur frequently, or bleeding is heavy.
1. Proper Hemostasis: Have the patient sit upright and lean slightly forward. Use fingers to pinch both sides of the nasal bridge firmly for 10–15 minutes while breathing through the mouth. Avoid tilting the head backward or stuffing tissues into the nose, which may cause blood to flow backward and lead to coughing or infection. This ensures safe and effective bleeding control.
2. Rational Cooling: If body temperature is below 38.5°C, apply physical cooling methods such as wiping the forehead, neck, and armpits with lukewarm water. For temperatures exceeding 38.5°C, take antipyretic medication at the recommended dosage to prevent worsening discomfort and nasal mucosal congestion caused by high fever.
3. Replenish Fluids and Electrolytes: Drink plenty of warm water, oral rehydration salts, or light soups and porridge to replace fluids and electrolytes lost due to fever and nosebleeds. Keeping the nasal mucosa moist helps reduce the risk of recurrent bleeding caused by dryness.
4. Avoid Triggering Factors: Maintain appropriate indoor humidity. Avoid forceful nose-blowing or picking the nose, and stay away from spicy foods and overheated environments. Minimize irritation to the nasal mucosa to prevent worsening of bleeding.
5. Monitor Symptom Changes: Keep a record of body temperature fluctuations and the frequency and amount of nosebleeds. Watch for additional symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or rashes, which can provide accurate information for potential medical consultations.
In daily life, ensure good indoor ventilation, adjust clothing according to temperature changes, maintain moist nasal mucosa, eat light and easily digestible meals, avoid strenuous exercise, and maintain regular sleep patterns to enhance immunity and reduce the risk of fever and nosebleeds.
