Definitions

Bleeding

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Blood is present in stool
• Repeated nosebleeds
• Unexplained and large areas of bruising
• Very heavy menstrual bleeding, for women

Self-care

For visible bleeding, apply firm pressure to wound with a sterile bandage for at least five minutes. If blood seeps through, add another bandage on top and maintain pressure.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• Injury is severe and bleeding heavily
• Bleeding doesn't stop after five minutes of constant pressure
• There's a gap between the edges of the wound about the width of a finger

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Blood is present in stool
• Repeated nosebleeds
• Unexplained and large areas of bruising
• Very heavy menstrual bleeding, for women