Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)
What is hemoptysis?
Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, can be a sign of a serious medical condition such as infections, cancer, or problems in the blood vessels or lungs. Hemoptysis often requires urgent care.
What are the causes of hemoptysis?
There are various potential reasons for coughing blood, which may include:
- Bronchitis (which is the most common cause and is rarely life-threatening)
- Lung cancer or non-malignant lung tumors
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary embolism
- Use of blood thinners
- Tuberculosis
- Congestive heart failure
- Trauma
When should I see a doctor for hemoptysis?
The most common reason for coughing blood is usually due to acute bronchitis, which can typically get better on its own without treatment. However, coughing blood can also be a sign of other medical conditions. Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Weight loss
- Soaking sweats at night
- Fever higher than 101 degrees
- Shortness of breath with your usual activity level
- Blood in mucus that lasts longer than a week or is getting worse
Come into your nearest Healthpointe location today to receive immediate medical attention for your hemoptysis symptoms.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including La Mirada by Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.