Blood in Phlegm
Coughing up blood, also called hemoptysis, is a concerning symptom that may indicate infection, inflammation, or serious lung conditions. The amount can range from streaks of blood to larger volumes. Common causes include bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis.
🚨 Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Call emergency services if:
- Coughing large amounts of blood.
- Shortness of breath or chest pain accompanies coughing.
- Fever, night sweats, or weight loss are present.
- History of lung disease or clotting disorders.
📞 Consult a Doctor
See a healthcare provider if:
- Small amounts of blood streaking phlegm appear repeatedly.
- Persistent cough or respiratory infections are present.
- Underlying conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis exist.
- Unexplained fatigue or anemia occurs along with hemoptysis.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Streaks of blood in phlegm | Acute or Chronic Bronchitis |
| Bloody sputum with fever | Pneumonia |
| Night sweats and coughing blood | Tuberculosis (TB) |
| Sudden blood in sputum without infection | Pulmonary Embolism |
| Chronic blood in phlegm | Lung Cancer |
Causes of Blood in Phlegm
Bronchitis: Inflamed airways causing minor bleeding.
Pneumonia: Lung infection that may lead to blood in sputum.
Tuberculosis: Chronic infection with characteristic blood-streaked sputum.
Pulmonary Embolism: Blood clot in the lung.
Bronchiectasis: Dilated airways prone to bleeding.
Lung Cancer: Tumors causing chronic hemoptysis.
Trauma: Injury to the lungs or airways.
Diagnostic Procedures
Chest X-Ray
Initial evaluation for infections, tumors, or lung damage.
CT Scan
Detailed imaging of lungs and airways to identify bleeding sources.
Sputum Culture & Cytology
Detects infection, TB, or abnormal cells.
Bronchoscopy
Direct visualization of airways to locate bleeding.
