Blood in Cough: Hidden Dangers and Urgent Warning Signs

Blood in cough — medically known as hemoptysis — can be alarming. Whether it’s just streaks in your sputum or a larger amount, it should never be ignored. While some causes are harmless, others may be serious and require immediate medical attention. Knowing why blood appears in cough can help you respond quickly and appropriately.

What Does Blood in Cough Look Like?

Blood in cough can appear in different ways:

• Bright red blood mixed with frothy mucus
• Rust-colored or streaked sputum
• Sometimes with chest pain, fever, or shortness of breath

Common Causes of Blood in Cough

Some causes are minor, while others require urgent attention.

1. Lung Infections

• Acute Bronchitis – Swollen airways can bleed slightly.
• Pneumonia – Bacterial or viral infections can cause lung inflammation.
• Tuberculosis (TB) – Still common in some countries; may also cause night sweats, fever, and weight loss.

2. Chronic Lung Conditions

• Bronchiectasis – Damaged airways that bleed during flare-ups.
• Lung Cancer – Especially in smokers or older adults.

3. Blood Vessel and Heart Problems

• Pulmonary Embolism – A blood clot in the lungs.
• Vascular Disorders – Such as arteriovenous malformations or heart failure, which can cause “pink and frothy” sputum.

4. Other Causes

• Trauma or foreign objects in the airway
• Bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medicines
• Autoimmune diseases like Goodpasture syndrome or vasculitis

Warning Signs to See a Doctor Immediately

Call a doctor if you notice:

• More than 150 mL of blood at one time or 400 mL in 24 hours
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Fever, night sweats, or weight loss
• History of TB, smoking, or lung disease
• Blood in urine or unusual bruising

Diagnosis

Your doctor may suggest:

• Chest X-ray or CT scan
• Sputum tests for infection or TB
• Bronchoscopy to locate the bleeding source
• Blood tests for clotting problems

Treatment for Blood in Cough

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Anti-TB medicines for tuberculosis
• Surgery or bronchoscopy for heavy bleeding or tumors
• Supportive care like oxygen and rest

Prevention Tips

• Quit smoking
• Treat chronic cough early
• Complete TB treatment
• Stay updated on flu and pneumonia vaccines

Final Note:
Not every case of blood in cough is dangerous, but it’s always a signal worth investigating. Early diagnosis and treatment can be life-saving.

External References

• Mayo Clinic – Coughing up blood
• Cleveland Clinic – Hemoptysis Overview
• National Library of Medicine – Hemoptysis Causes & Management