Coughing Up Blood
Tests that may be needed
Source: NHS
In this topic (4)
You may be asked for a sample of yoursputum so it can bechecked for infection. Other tests, such as blood tests , may also be needed.
Your GP may decide to refer you to a specialist at your local hospital for a chest X-ray or a more detailed scan, such as a computerised tomography (CT) scan .
In some cases, further tests may be required to find out where the blood is coming from. For example, you may be referred to a specialist who may decide to arrange a test called a bronchoscopy (where the main air passages of your lungs are examined using a tube with a camera at one end).
This page can give you a better idea of whatthe cause may be, but don't use it to diagnose yourself. Always leave that to a doctor .
Articles for Coughing Up Blood
Common causes of coughing up blood
The most common reasons for coughing up blood are: a prolonged, severe cough a chest infection this is more likely if your sputum is discoloured or contains pus, you have a fever, or you have a t
Introduction
Coughing up blood can be alarming, but isn't usually a sign of anything serious. Find out what you should do if you cough up blood and what the cause might be.
Less common causes of coughing up blood
Less commonly, coughing up blood may be the result of: pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in thelungs) this usually causes sudden shortness of breath and chest pain pulmonary oedema (fluidin the l
Tests that may be needed
You may be asked for a sample of yoursputum so it can bechecked for infection. Other tests, such as blood tests , may also be needed. Your GP may decide to refer you to a specialist at your local hos