What should you know about blood coming while coughing?

Blood coming up while coughing should be assessed, especially when it is repeated or accompanied by breathing difficulty. Small streaks can follow forceful coughing or airway irritation, but blood may also come from the nose, mouth, or lungs. Note whether it is bright red, mixed with mucus, or dark and clotted.

Acute Bronchitis and a Common Cold can inflame the airway and lead to streaks of blood. Asthma, Bronchiectasis, or a long-lasting cough can also cause irritation and bleeding. Blood from the nose or throat may be noticed during coughing without coming from the chest. Reflux and Allergic Rhinitis can contribute to repeated coughing, although they do not explain every episode.

Arrange medical advice if the bleeding returns, lasts beyond a brief episode, or has no clear explanation. Record the amount, colour, timing, and any fever, chest pain, wheeze, weight change, or breathlessness. Bring a list of medicines, particularly blood thinners. Avoid smoking and do not suppress a productive cough with someone else's medicine.

Call emergency services for more than a small streak, ongoing bleeding, severe breathlessness, chest pain, faintness, confusion, or blue lips. Urgent assessment is also needed if you feel suddenly very unwell or are taking anticoagulant medicine.

Ask where the blood may be coming from, whether you need a chest examination or imaging, and how your medicines affect bleeding. Ask what amount or symptom should send you straight to urgent care.