Coughing up blood or hemoptysis can be an alarming ordeal, but it is not generally an indication of a serious issue among young and healthy individuals. On the other hand, it is an issue of concern among the elderly, especially those who smoke.
The individual might cough up small traces of bright red blood or froth-like sputum. The blood originates from the lungs and often due to extended periods of coughing or chest infection.
In case the blood is murky in appearance and includes fragments of food or coffee-ground particles, it originates from the digestive system. This is considered as a serious issue and immediate medical attention is vital.
What are the common causes?
The usual causes of coughing up blood include:
- Severe, extended episode of coughing
- Bronchiectasis – this is likely if the individual is also wheezing or suffering from shortness of breath
- Chest infection – this is likely if the sputum is discolored or includes pus along with fever or chest tightness
Oftentimes, a severe case of nosebleed or bleeding from the throat or mouth causes the blood to mingle with the saliva while coughing.
Uncommon causes
In some instances, coughing up blood might be the result of the following:
- Pulmonary embolism – this results to abrupt episodes of shortness of breath and chest pain
- Pulmonary edema – the sputum is pinkish and frothy that generally occurs among individuals with current heart conditions
- Tuberculosis – this is a severe form of lung infection linked with fever and sweating
- Lung cancer – this is likely among individuals over 40 years of age and those who smoke
- Cancer of the windpipe or throat
- Using anticoagulants – these medications work by preventing blood clotting such as warfarin
What should I do?
A doctor must be seen right away if an individual is coughing up blood. Medical care is vital if the following are present:
- Coughing up blood more than a few teaspoons
- Symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, lightheadedness, fever or shortness of breath occurs
- Appetite loss or unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool or urine