Blood cough in TB: what to know

Lung tuberculosis can inflame and damage airway tissue, leading to a cough, phlegm and sometimes blood. A persistent cough with fever, night sweats, tiredness or unexplained weight loss needs review, especially after close contact with someone who has infectious TB or travel in an area where TB is common. Other causes remain possible, including Acute Bronchitis, Bronchiectasis, asthma or a nose and throat source. Blood in sputum cannot confirm or exclude TB by itself.

Contact a clinician or public health service promptly and describe the cough, blood, other symptoms and any exposure. Follow local instructions about masks, ventilation and avoiding close indoor contact until you receive advice if infectious TB is suspected. Do not take borrowed antibiotics or stop prescribed TB medicines without guidance. Testing may involve a chest assessment, sputum samples and other investigations chosen by the clinician.

Use emergency services for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, chest pain, faintness, confusion or blue lips. Seek prompt review for any recurrent blood, a persistent cough, fever, night sweats or worsening weakness. Mention pregnancy, immune problems and medicines that affect clotting when arranging care.

Ask which TB tests are appropriate, whether you need to limit contact while waiting, how to protect household members, and which symptoms should trigger emergency help. If treatment is started, ask how doses and follow-up will be monitored.