Because of a popular trope in movies, many people think of tuberculosis when they think of coughing up blood (hemoptysis). However, there are many other causes of bloody mucus.
References
Bidwell, J. L., et al. (2005). Hemoptysis: Diagnosis and management. American Family Physician.
MedlinePlus. (2021). Coughing up blood.
NiDirect Government Services. (n.d.). Coughing up blood (blood in phlegm).
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Written by:
Hilary WeissmanHilary Weissman has been a health writer for the past 6 years. She was a senior copywriter at WW (Weight Watchers) before joining GoodRx and was also a copy editor in S&P Global’s structured finance ratings group for 3 years prior.
Reviewed by:
Mera Goodman, MD, FAAPMera Goodman, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to practicing medicine, she worked as a management consultant.
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