Coughing up blood: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services now if:

   • There is more than a few spots or streaks, or bleeding continues
   • You are struggling to breathe
   • You have chest or upper-back pain, a very fast heartbeat or blue-grey lips
   • You feel faint, confused, very weak or unusually drowsy
   • Blood appears with sudden breathlessness or one-sided leg swelling

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day medical advice if you cough up any blood that appears to come from your chest, even a few spots or streaks.

   This is especially important if it happens again, you have a fever, or you have a lung or heart condition.

   After urgent assessment, arrange follow-up if your cough continues, the blood returns or recommended tests have not been completed.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Coughing up blood. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.