What Does Sputum With Streaks Of Blood Indicate?

Posted on Wed, 19 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 Answered on

Wed, 9 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. I recently had a CT scan and they found spots on my lungs which they believe are benign. Today I coughed up some tissue, whitish yellow with thin red streaks. Should Inpress for further tests?

Answered by Dr. Vidya KR (3 hours later)

Brief Answer: Examination and sputum study Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. I went through your query and understood your concerns. Coughing with some amount of sputum production is normal in every individual, as its a reflex mechanism to clear airway. Sometimes forceful coughing results in trauma to mucosa of airway resulting in streaks of blood with in it. Since you also have some lesions seen in CT, I would like a doctor to examine your throat and chest and then order for sputum study. I would insist for the tests if I persist to have sputum and blood stains. In the meanwhile do warm salt water gargling 4 times a day, which helps to clear your throat. Hope this information helps you. Feel free to ask further related query. Wish you a good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad