Coughing Blood From the Throat

Small streaks can appear after forceful coughing or a dry, inflamed throat. Blood may also run from the nose into the throat, or come from irritated gums or tonsils. Infections such as a Common Cold, Influenza, COVID-19, Strep Throat, or Tonsillitis can inflame nearby tissue. Acid Reflux may irritate the throat as well. Blood that is mixed with phlegm after a deep cough may have a lower-airway source, so its colour, amount, and recurrence matter. Do not assume the source without an examination.

Stop smoking and avoid vigorous throat clearing. Note whether the blood is bright red, streaked through mucus, or vomited; record how often it appears and any medicines that affect bleeding. Arrange prompt medical advice for any unexplained episode, particularly if it returns. Do not take leftover antibiotics or change prescribed blood-thinning medicine without medical direction. If possible, bring a photo or describe the amount accurately to the clinician.

Call emergency services for more than a small streak, ongoing bleeding, breathing difficulty, chest pain, faintness, confusion, or a fast worsening cough. Urgent assessment is also needed when blood follows an injury, occurs with severe illness, or appears alongside vomiting blood or black stools. A clinician may examine the mouth, nose, throat, and chest and decide whether further tests are needed.

Could the blood be from my nose, gums, throat, or chest? Does my medication affect bleeding? Which symptoms would mean emergency care? Do I need an examination for infection, reflux, or another cause?