What does coughing up blood feel like with pulmonary embolism?

Blood from a pulmonary embolism may be a small amount of bright red or rusty material brought up with a cough. The cough can occur alongside pain that worsens when breathing in, sudden shortness of breath, a racing heartbeat, weakness, or anxiety. A swollen or painful leg can also be relevant. Symptoms can vary, and the pattern cannot be confirmed without urgent medical assessment.

Treat suspected pulmonary embolism as an emergency. Call emergency services immediately if coughing up blood occurs with sudden breathlessness, chest pain, faintness, a fast heartbeat, or collapse. Do not drive yourself. Sit or lie in a comfortable position, limit movement, and tell the emergency team about recent travel, surgery, illness, pregnancy, medicines, or a previous clot if any apply.

Emergency help is needed for any combination of coughing up blood and difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, or blue or grey lips. Even if symptoms settle, urgent assessment remains necessary because serious breathing problems can fluctuate.

Ask what tests are needed to check the lungs and blood vessels, whether you need treatment to prevent clot growth, which medicines affect bleeding risk, and what symptoms require immediate return after discharge.