If you’ve ever experienced a nosebleed, you know how frustrating and inconvenient they can be.
But did you know that acupressure and using the nosebleed pressure point can help stop a bleed in its tracks?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of using acupressure to stop a nosebleed – including which points to apply pressure to and for how long.
Whether you’re prone to nosebleeds or just want to be prepared in case one strikes, mastering this simple pressure point to stop nosebleeds can help you feel more confident and in control.
What Causes Nosebleeds?
There are several potential causes of nosebleeds. Common ones include:
Drying of the Nasal Membranes
The delicate nasal membranes inside your nose can easily become dry and irritated, especially during the winter months or in dry climates. This can cause the membranes to crack and bleed, leading to a nosebleed.
Trauma or Injury to the Outside of the Nose
If you’ve ever taken a bump to the nose, you’ll know how much it can hurt!
Trauma or injury to the outside of the nose can also cause nosebleeds, as the force of the impact can damage the delicate blood vessels inside your nose.
If the trauma is due to the blood vessels located higher up the nose, those are posterior nosebleeds.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can put a strain on the blood vessels in your nose, making them more prone to rupturing and causing a nosebleednose bleed.
Inability of the Blood to Clot
If your blood is unable to clot properly, even a small cut or injury can cause a nosebleed that’s hard to stop. This can be due to a variety of medical conditions, such as hemophilia or liver disease.
A doctor can test for and diagnose if you have a blood clotting disorder or other condition.
Use of Blood-Thinning Drugs Such as Warfarin or Aspirin
Blood-thinning drugs such as Warfarin or Aspirin can increase the risk of nosebleeds, as they reduce the blood’s ability to clot.
Other Drugs
Certain drugs, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or illegal drugs like cocaine, can also cause nosebleeds by damaging the blood vessels inside your nose.
12 Best Acupressure Points to Stop Nosebleeds
1. Large Intestine 3 (LI 3) — Sanjian or Third Space
The LI 3 pressure point is located on the back of the hand, in the fleshy area between the thumb and the index finger.
In order to stop the bleeding, apply firm pressure to LI 3 on the side of the hand opposite the affected nostril.
There is also a technique that can be used to stimulate both LI 3 and SI 3 at once:
Tie a string around the palm just beneath the knuckles and make a fist. This has been effective for many people to endending nosebleeds.
In addition to nosebleeds, firm pressure on LI 3 is believed to be helpful for a variety of other conditions. These include headaches and migraines, eye strain, digestive issues, and menstrual pain.
2. Small Intestine 3 (SI 3) — Houxi or Back Stream
The SI 3 point is found on the outside edge of the hand, in the depression between the base of the fifth finger and the wrist.
As with LI 3, apply firm pressure on the side of the hand opposite to the affected nostril to stop a nosebleed.
This point is also believed to be helpful for relieving pain in the head, neck, and shoulders. It’s particularly helpful for tension headaches and migraines.
3. Governor Vessel 26 (GV 26 or DU 26) — Renzhong or Human Center
The GV 26 point is in the center of the philtrum. Pressure on this point is often used to stop nosebleeds, as it is believed to help constrict blood vessels in the nasal cavity.
In addition to nosebleeds, stimulation of GV 26 is believed to be helpful to relieve headaches.
4. Bladder 3 (B 3 or UB 3) — Meichong or Eyebrow Ascension
The B 3 is located in the depression at the medial end of the eyebrow, near the bridge of the nose.
Pressure on this point is believed to help stop nosebleeds by regulating the flow of blood to the nose.
Apply firm pressure to B 3 with the thumb or index finger for several minutes, or until the bleeding stops.
Stimulation of B 3 can also be used to relieve eye strain, headaches, and sinus congestion.
5. Large Intestine 4 (LI 4) — Hegu or Union Valley
The LI 4 pressure point can be found in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Pressure on this point is believed to help stop nosebleeds by reducing heat and inflammation in the body.
Apply firm pressure to LI 4 with the thumb or index finger for several minutes — this should stop the bleeding.
Applying pressure to LI 4 is also often used to relieve headaches, including migraines and tension headaches.
A word of caution, though — this pressure point is not suitable for pregnant people as it can lead to premature contractions.
6. Governor Vessel 16 (GV 16) — Fengfu or Wind Mansion
GV 16 is located on the back of the neck, at the base of the skull. It is believed to stop nosebleeds by regulating blood flow to the head and face.
This point can be stimulated by leaning forward and applying firm pressure to the hollow area at the base of the skull. Do so for one minute while breathing slowly and deeply.
Some people also believe that pressure on this point can help with insomnia, vertigo, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
7. Governor Vessel 23 (GV 23 or DU 23) — Shangxing or Upper Star
You can stimulate the GV 23 point by pressing on the center of the eyebrow line. This stops nosebleeds by reducing heat and inflammation in the body.
Applying firm pressure with the thumb or index finger for several minutes should get the bleeding to stop.
This pressure point is also believed to be helpful for a range of other conditions. It is often used to relieve headaches, sinus pressure, and eye strain.
8. Governor Vessel 14 (GV 14 or DU 14) — Dazhui or Great Vertebra
Governor Vessel 14 (GV 14), also known as Dazhui or Great Vertebra, is located on the midline of the upper back below the seventh cervical vertebrae.
Pressure on this point is believed to help stop nosebleeds by regulating the flow of blood and energy in the body.
You can apply firm pressure to the GV 14 point with the fingertips or the heel of the hand for several minutes, or until the bleeding stops. This one is easier if you get a friend to help you.
This point is often used to relieve neck and shoulder tension, as well as headaches, migraines, and upper back pain.
9. Large Intestine 11 (LI 11) — Quchi or Pool at the Crook
The Large Intestine 11 (LI 11), also known as Quchi, is located at the outer end of the elbow crease on the thumb side.
It is believed to be effective at stopping nosebleeds because it is located on the Large Intestine meridian, which is associated with the regulation of blood flow in the body.
By applying pressure on LI 11, it is thought that the blood vessels around the nose and face can be constricted. This is thought to help to stop the bleeding.
To use acupressure for nosebleeds, apply firm pressure to LI 11 with the thumb or fingertips for several minutes (or until the bleeding stops).
This point is also used to relieve pain and inflammation, especially in the elbow. It can also help to regulate digestion and boost the immune system.
10. Large Intestine 20 (LI 20) — Yingxiang or Welcome Fragrance
The LI 20 pressure point is located at the base of the nostrils, on either side of the nose.
Acupressure here is believed to help stop nosebleeds by promoting blood coagulation and reducing blood vessel inflammation. This occurs through its action on the facial nerves and the local blood vessels.
Apply firm pressure to LI 20 with the index fingers for several minutes, or until the bleeding stops.
This point is also used to relieve sinus congestion and headaches, as well as allergies and respiratory conditions.
11. Urinary Bladder 12 (UB 12) — Fengmen or Wind Gate
The Urinary Bladder 12 (UB 12), also known as Fengmen or Wind Gate, is located on the upper back. It can be found between the shoulder blades, at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra.
UB 12 acupressure is believed to help stop nosebleeds by regulating the flow of Qi and blood to the lungs and respiratory system.
This helps to reduce inflammation and promote blood coagulation in the nasal blood vessels.
Apply firm pressure to UB 12 with the fingertips or the heel of the hand for several minutes, or until the bleeding stops. This is another acupressure point that is easier to apply if someone else helps you.
This point is also used to relieve upper back tension and pain, as well as to boost the immune system and support lung function.
12. Urinary Bladder 13 (UB 13) — Feishu or Lung Shu
The Urinary Bladder 13 (UB 13), also known as Feishu or Lung Shu, is located on the upper back, at the level of the third thoracic vertebra.
UB 13 acupressure is believed to help stop nosebleeds by strengthening the lungs and respiratory system. It also reduces inflammation and promotes blood coagulation in the nasal blood vessels.
Apply firm pressure to UB 13 with the fingertips or the heel of the hand for several minutes, or until the bleeding stops.
This point is also used to support lung function, alleviate respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and promote relaxation and emotional balance.
Is Acupressure Really Efficient in Treating Nosebleeds?
Acupressure can be a highly effective way to treat nosebleeds. In fact, many people find it to be just as effective (if not more so) than other methods, such as pinching the nose or using ice packs.
The great thing about acupressure is that it doesn’t just treat the symptoms of the nosebleed. It also addresses the underlying cause by promoting healthy blood flow and circulation.
By applying pressure to specific points on the body, you can help stop the bleeding and prevent future nosebleeds from occurring.
Another advantage of acupressure is that it’s a non-invasive and natural approach to treatment. This makes it a safe option for people of all ages and health backgrounds.
Since acupressure doesn’t involve any medications or chemicals, it’s also free from the potential side effects that can come with traditional medical treatments.
Other Things to Consider When Getting Nosebleeds
When it comes to nosebleeds, there are a few other things to consider beyond just treating the immediate bleeding.
By taking these additional steps, you can help prevent future nosebleeds and keep your nasal passages healthy and comfortable.
Drink Water
Staying hydrated can help prevent your nasal membranes from becoming dry and irritated, which can lead to nosebleeds.
So, be sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids – especially if you live in a dry or arid climate.
Avoid Intensive Activities for a Short Period of Time
Another thing to keep in mind is to avoid intensive activities for a short period of time after a nosebleed.
This means steering clear of things like heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, which can put extra pressure on your nasal passages and increase the risk of bleeding.
Control the Humidity in the Room
Controlling the humidity in the room can also be helpful.
Using a humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can soothe your nasal passages and prevent them from drying out.
This is especially important during the winter months when the air tends to be drier.
When to See a Doctor
Finally, it’s important to know when to see a doctor for medical advice.
While most nosebleeds are minor and can be treated at home with acupressure or other remedies, there are times when a nosebleed can indicate a more serious problem.
If you experience frequent nosebleeds, a nosebleed that won’t stop for more than 20 minutes, or other symptoms such as dizziness or fainting, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
Very interesting and educating