What is the treatment for blood tinged sputum?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had blood in my sputum for a long time (less than one year). I also have problems during yawning, especially if I turn my neck, back of my throat hurts. I was referred to a pulmonologist (also because I had a positive skin test for TB), after which I did my CT scan. The CT scan came clean, and the pulmonologist prescribed Montelukast, which I have been taking for over a month now. After that, the blood-tinged sputum became less frequent, but the problem still persisted. I recently strained my neck to clear my sputum, and it was blood tinged again. Any advice on how should I proceed? Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Blood-tinged sputum can have multiple causes at different locations throughout the airway ranging from the opening of the mouth and nose up to the terminal structure in the lungs. The majority of cases are not so severe and easily manageable, but sometimes serious medical conditions can be revealed when a case of blood-stained sputum is investigated. The proper way to approach a case of blood-stained sputum to arrive at an exact diagnosis is first to get a thorough examination of all possible bleeding sites with, 1. Fibreoptic video laryngoscopy. 2. Diagnostic sinonasal endoscopy. 3. Video bronchoscopy. As some blood disorders can also lead to blood in the sputum, compliance with blood work is also necessary. Radiological investigation and sputum examination can be employed to assist in diagnosis.