What is the first-line treatment for anterior epistaxis?

The first-line treatment for anterior epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is direct pressure. This approach is effective because it helps to compress the bleeding vessels and allows for clot formation at the site of the bleeding. To apply direct pressure, the patient should be instructed to sit upright and lean slightly forward, pinching the soft part of the nose continuously for about 10 to 15 minutes.

This method is widely recommended as an initial step because it is non-invasive and can resolve many cases without the need for further intervention. Other treatments, such as cauterization or nasal packing, may be necessary for persistent bleeding, but initially applying direct pressure is the simplest and most effective way to manage most anterior nosebleeds.