Coughing up blood (blood in phlegm)
Causes of coughing up blood
Common causes of coughing up blood include:
- a long-lasting or severe cough
- a lung or airway infection like a chest infection, pneumonia, tuberculosis or bronchitis
- a problem with your airways that causes them to widen and produce more mucus (bronchiectasis)
Sometimes coughing up blood can be a sign of something more serious like a blood clot or lung cancer.
It's important to get it checked out as soon as possible.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
- you've coughed up a few small spots, flecks or streaks of blood, or noticed blood in your phlegm or handkerchief
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if:
- you're coughing up more than just a few spots or streaks of blood
- you're coughing up blood and finding it hard to breathe, have a very fast heartbeat or have pain in your chest or upper back
These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious problem like a blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Last Reviewed
15 April 2025
15 April 2025
