Hemoptysis (coughing blood)
About Hemoptysis (coughing blood)
Coughing of blood. The blood usually comes from the lung or the tubes that carry air in the lungs (trachea, bronchi, bronchioles). This disorder is a serious symptom requiring urgent medical attention. Hemoptysis can be caused by many things, including infections, cancers, blood clots, and trauma.Symptoms
Chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, blood in sputum.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Hospitalization may be recommended. Imaging tests, such as a chest x-ray or CT scan are commonly performed to evaluate hemoptysis. Bronchoscopy may be recommended to identify the site of bleeding, to biopsy any abnormality seen and, in some cases, to stop the bleeding.Common tests: activated partial thromboplastin, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, MRI, Protime, Type and screen, X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
The goal of therapy is to stop the bleeding, replace the lost blood if necessary and prevent the patient from breathing the blood into the lungs. Treatment may include: mechanical intubation, bronchoscopy, blood transfusions, and surgery.Medical specialties
Pulmonology · Pediatric Pulmonology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Hemoptysis (coughing blood).