SUNDAY, Sept. 12 (HealthDayNews) -- Advice on how to prevent and stops nosebleeds is offered in the September issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

You can decrease the risk of nosebleed by using a humidifier to increase air humidity in your home. You can lubricate the inside of your nose with petroleum jelly or with nasal saline gel.

If you develop a nosebleed, use your thumb and index finger to pinch your nostrils while you breathe through your mouth. Continue to pinch your nostrils for five to 10 minutes.

To prevent re-bleeding, don't pick at or blow your nose. Keep your head higher than the level of your heart for several hours after the nosebleed.

If re-bleeding occurs, sniff forcefully to clear your nose of blood clots. Spray a decongestant nasal spray containing oxymetazoline into both nostrils. Pinch your nose again and call your doctor, the letter said.

You should seek medical attention if: Your nosebleed lasts more than 15 to 30 minutes; you feel weak or faint; there is rapid bleeding; or if the bleeding begins by trickling down the back of your throat.

More information

The Nemours Foundation has more about nosebleeds.