What causes blood streaks in coughed-up phlegm?

Blood-tinged sputum is generally caused by factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, pharyngitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Long-term smoking and alcohol consumption may damage the mucous membranes of the throat, leading to blood in the sputum. It is advisable to quit smoking and drinking, and avoid secondhand smoke.

2. Pharyngitis: This may be associated with long-term smoking or overuse of the voice. If left untreated, inflammation in the throat may progressively worsen, causing symptoms such as redness, swelling, and erosion. During severe coughing, damaged mucosal tissue may be expelled with sputum, appearing as blood-tinged phlegm. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions when using medications such as Compound Honeysuckle Granules, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Roxithromycin Tablets.

3. Sinusitis: This condition may be related to allergies or pathogen infection. Symptoms include nasal congestion and runny nose. While sleeping, nasal discharge may drain into the throat, irritating or damaging the local mucosa, resulting in blood-tinged sputum. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as Clindamycin Hydrochloride Tablets, Azithromycin Capsules, or Cefixime Capsules for relief.

4. Pneumonia: This may occur due to decreased immunity or pathogen invasion. In severe infections, localized tissue rupture and bleeding may occur, manifesting as bloody sputum. Other possible symptoms include high fever, dizziness, and general weakness. Patients should strictly follow medical instructions when taking medications such as Acyclovir Capsules, Cefalexin and Trimethoprim Tablets, or Ribavirin Tablets to improve their condition.

5. Tuberculosis: This is usually associated with close contact with TB patients or low immunity. Tuberculous lesions may cause local exudation and bleeding, leading to blood-tinged sputum. Additional symptoms may include weight loss, low-grade fever, and reduced body weight. Patients should receive treatment under a doctor’s supervision using medications such as Isoniazid Tablets, Rifampicin Tablets, and Pyrazinamide Tablets.

It is recommended to brush teeth regularly, rinse the mouth, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, exercise appropriately, and maintain adequate sleep, all of which are beneficial for overall health.