Blood in spit: what to know

Bleeding gums, a mouth sore, a nosebleed draining backwards, or an irritated throat can colour saliva. Coughing can bring blood-streaked phlegm from inflamed airways; acute bronchitis, asthma, bronchiectasis, and a chronic cough are among the conditions a clinician may consider. Acid reflux can irritate the throat, while a common cold or allergic rhinitis may cause repeated clearing and surface irritation. Blood in spit does not identify one diagnosis by itself.

Spit into a tissue or container so you can describe the amount and appearance. Check gently for bleeding in the mouth, but do not scrape a sore or keep clearing your throat. Avoid smoking and strenuous activity until you have advice. Make a note of cough, fever, wheezing, breathlessness, reflux symptoms, recent dental work, injury, and medicines that affect clotting. A clinician may inspect your mouth, nose, throat, and chest.

Get emergency help if you are struggling to breathe, have severe chest pain, feel faint or confused, or are bringing up a large or continuing amount of blood. Seek prompt review when blood recurs, appears without an obvious mouth or nose source, or comes with fever, worsening cough, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss. Do not delay advice if you take blood-thinning medicine.

Ask where the blood is most likely originating, whether your cough, reflux, allergy, or airway symptoms need assessment, and what changes should prompt urgent help. Bring a list of medicines and a description of the blood.