What should be done for coughing up blood caused by tuberculosis?

In general, hemoptysis caused by tuberculosis should be managed with dietary therapy, traditional Chinese medicine treatment, Western medication, interventional hemostasis, and anti-tuberculosis treatment. If hemoptysis occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying the condition. Specific approaches are as follows:

1. Dietary Therapy

Patients with tuberculosis experiencing hemoptysis should rest adequately and maintain a light diet. They may consume more fresh vegetables and fruits, while avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, onions, and ginger, and reduce intake of greasy foods.

2. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treatment

Hemoptysis caused by tuberculosis is typically characterized by bright red blood, often accompanied by symptoms such as five-center heat (palms, soles, chest), night sweats, flushed cheeks, and tidal fever. Patients may follow medical advice to use TCM formulas such as Baihe Gujin Tang, Qinjiao Biejia San, or Yuehua Pills for treatment.

3. Western Medication

For tuberculosis patients with significant hemoptysis, medications such as tranexamic acid injection or thrombin powder may be used under medical guidance. If initial hemostatic drugs are ineffective, additional medications such as Chuanghuazhizhu dispersible tablets, streptomycin sulfate for injection, or tranexamic acid tablets may be prescribed as needed.

4. Interventional Hemostasis

If tuberculous lesions erode pulmonary blood vessels and physicians assess a high risk of massive bleeding, interventional embolization of the affected vessel may be performed under medical guidance to alleviate patient suffering.

5. Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment

For patients with severe disease, surgical interventions such as debridement, closed thoracic drainage, or repair procedures may be recommended under medical supervision, as these surgeries may help eradicate tuberculosis.

Patients are advised to live in a separate room, avoid sharing personal items, properly disinfect tissues, leftover food, bedding, clothing, and towels, and frequently sun-dry their bedding.