“Coughing up blood” is not a minor symptom to ignore because it may be a warning sign of a serious hidden disease in the body, including chronic lung disease, tuberculosis, or even lung cancer. If you or someone close to you has ever coughed up blood, whether bright red or dark brown, you should see a doctor immediately.
What is coughing up blood?
“Coughing up blood” (Hemoptysis) is a condition where blood is expelled during coughing. It may be fresh blood or blood mixed with sputum, caused by abnormalities in the respiratory system, especially in the bronchi or lungs. It should not be confused with blood coming from the nasal cavity, mouth, or digestive tract.
What does the blood look like?
- Fresh blood, dark red usually comes from the upper respiratory tract, such as the bronchi or larynx.
- Blood mixed with sputum, pink or foamy is often related to the lungs or pulmonary edema.
- Dark brown blood or resembling old blood clots may be caused by chronic infection or damaged lung tissue.
If you cough up blood clots or a large amount of blood, you must see a doctor urgently as it can be life-threatening.
Causes of coughing up blood
There are various causes, ranging from mild to dangerous warning signs, including:
- Mild diseases (but should be cautious)
- Acute or chronic bronchitis
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Rupture of capillaries in the respiratory tract
- Potentially serious diseases
- Tuberculosis of the lungs commonly found in Thailand, especially in immunocompromised individuals
- Lung cancer often found in smokers or those with long-term exposure to pollution
- Bronchiectasis
- Lung abscess
- Pulmonary embolism
Associated symptoms to watch for
- Chronic cough lasting more than 2 weeks
- Unexplained weight loss
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain when breathing
- Chronic fever or chills
If you have these symptoms along with coughing up blood, you should see a doctor immediately as it may be a serious disease requiring urgent diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Doctors will start by asking about symptoms, performing a physical examination, and may consider additional tests such as
- Chest X-ray
- Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
- Bronchoscopy
- Sputum test for tuberculosis
Treatment depends on the identified cause
- Anti-inflammatory or antibiotic drugs for infected patients
- Anti-tuberculosis drugs if tuberculosis is detected
- Surgery or chemotherapy in cases of cancer
- Special procedures such as embolization if there is heavy bleeding
Can coughing up blood be prevented?
Although some diseases causing coughing up blood cannot be prevented 100% you can reduce the risk by
- Quitting smoking
- Wearing a mask in dusty or smoky areas
- Getting vaccinated against respiratory diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, or RSV
- Regular health check-ups, especially for those with a history of chronic lung disease
“Coughing up blood” is not a small matter!
It may be a symptom of life-threatening diseases such as tuberculosis, lung cancer, or pulmonary embolism. If you have symptoms of coughing up blood, you should see a doctor to find the true cause and plan appropriate treatment.
