Blood cough symptoms: what they can mean and what to do

Blood mixed with mucus may appear after forceful or repeated coughing, when small airway vessels become irritated. A chest infection such as Acute Bronchitis or a Common Cold can inflame the breathing tubes. Asthma, Bronchiectasis, and a Chronic Cough may also contribute. Blood from the nose, gums, throat, or stomach can sometimes be mistaken for blood from the lungs. The colour, amount, frequency, and whether it is mixed with phlegm help a clinician assess the symptom. Coughing up blood does not by itself identify one condition.

Arrange a clinical assessment, especially if the symptom is new, repeated, or unexplained. Note when it began, how often it happens, whether the blood is streaked through mucus or separate, and any fever, breathlessness, chest discomfort, wheeze, or weight change. Avoid smoking and vaping while you are being assessed, and do not stop prescribed medicines without advice. Bring a list of medicines, including products that affect clotting. A clinician may examine your mouth and chest and decide whether further tests are needed.

Seek emergency help if bleeding is more than a small streak, is continuing, or is accompanied by trouble breathing, chest pain, faintness, confusion, blue lips, or a very fast heartbeat. Urgent assessment is also needed after a chest injury or if you take blood-thinning medicine. If you feel stable but blood returns, contact a healthcare professional promptly; do not wait for repeated episodes to settle on their own.

Ask: Where might the blood be coming from? Do my medicines or smoking history change the assessment? Which examination or test is appropriate? What warning signs should make me seek emergency help? What should I record if the symptom happens again?