Sometimes we can observe that when coughing or blowing the nose, the phlegm and mucus contain some red bloodshot. This happens more frequently in the morning after going to bed and lying down. This can be scary.
Generally speakingCoughing up phlegm or a small amount of blood in the phlegm associated with respiratory tract infections and disappear as the process resolves. There are other environmental factors and habits that can cause phlegm or bloody mucus.
In this article, we’ll review the most common minor causes of bloody phlegm and what we can do to avoid it. We’ll look at some habits and techniques to help our bodies in these situations. Very important when we need to see a health professional.
In this video, you’ll find some keys to helping your body gently expel mucus:
blood in sputum
When we talk about phlegm in general, we are usually referring to the mucus that is expelled when you cough. Coughing is a defense mechanism that helps the body eliminate foreign objects and microorganisms that may be lodged in the upper and lower respiratory tracts.
When mucus is excreted through the nose (part of the upper respiratory tract), we say “snot” or “mucus,” although it is actually a type of mucus.
Blood in the sputum when coughing
A cough related to the elimination of blood from the respiratory tree is called Hemoptysis.
The amount of blood coughed up can vary: it may be just a few filaments or filaments seen on the tissue mixed with normal phlegm, or it may be a large amount of blood without phlegm.
Accompanied by hemoptysis, Other symptoms may occurSuch as fever, shortness of breath, weakness, pain, etc., depending on the cause of hemoptysis.
frequently What we think of as blood in sputum or blood in cough is actually not like this: Bleeding from the throat and gums, mixed with salivaeven bleeding from the nose to the throat.
For smokers or those who pass a lot of blood when coughing, it is recommended to see a health professional.
Blood in the sputum after getting up
The phlegm itself, in addition to removing a certain amount of blood, can take on different colors. In the morning, when coughing to clear the airways, especially in a dry environment, The phlegm may be yellow and there may be a certain amount of blood It comes from the nose, gums, throat and lower respiratory tract.
Generally speaking, once the phlegm accumulated at night is eliminated, the phlegm will turn white or transparent and there will be no further bleeding throughout the day.
Common and minor causes of blood in phlegm
Although coughing up bloody phlegm (hemoptysis) can scare us, in most cases the cause is mild and the presence of blood is minimal and disappears within a short time. If not, go see a professional.
Let’s look at the common and minor causes of blood in phlegm:
- Respiratory tract infections: Coughing up blood or bloody sputum is common with many mild respiratory illnesses, such as upper respiratory tract (nose and throat) infections and viral bronchitis. Pharyngitis can cause some bleeding when the throat is very swollen and you cough frequently.
- snore: People who snore are also more likely to have phlegm with light bleeding. When you snore, your mucous membranes are more likely to dry out and your airways are put under pressure.
- Presence of foreign bodies or irritating substances: Aspiration of foreign objects may damage the airway walls and cause bleeding. Some people have difficulty choking when eating or drinking, and trying to cough to free their airways may cause spotting.
- Environmental dryness: Hot weather, the use of air conditioning or in cold weather due to heating and a dry workplace can cause dryness of the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and respiratory tract. This can make it easier for bloodshot eyes to appear when you cough. Additionally, the cough may become dry or have phlegm that is difficult to clear.
How to avoid or reduce bloody phlegm
As we mentioned, minor causes are temporary conditions and the presence of blood disappears quickly. However, we can help avoid and minimize them with some natural remedies, tips, and healthy habits.
Environmental humidity control
If you are in a dry environment, whether due to natural or artificial heat, or because your air conditioner dries out the environment, Use a humidifier Maintain proper humidity, which also keeps your respiratory tract hydrated.
Humidity levels between 40% and 60% are considered the healthiest range. Some devices used to measure ambient humidity are calibrated to indicate that between 50% and 55% is considered optimal.
Hydrate your body
Drinking water, drinking infusions, eating fruits, and drinking juices are ways to keep your body hydrated, thereby helping to reduce respiratory congestion.
Soften mucous membranes
this Honey Can help soothe throat and cough.Can be taken after dissolving in warm water Add a little lemon and/or ginger. In this way, we also enhance the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of honey itself.
able gargle Before swallowing; your throat will also benefit.
generate smoke
Making steam is a very ancient remedy that helps hydrate mucus, promotes its drainage, and relieves congestion, thus preventing blood streaks or streaks of blood in the phlegm.
Nasal wash
Using salt water or sea water to rinse your nose can improve upper respiratory tract conditions by helping to expel phlegm and reduce bleeding.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid helps blood vessels maintain proper structure and tone, preventing bleeding.Vitamin C is found in fruits and nuts It is often accompanied by bioflavonoids Furthermore, this reinforces Protective effect on blood vessels and capillaries.
Vitamin C can be supplemented during a cold or mild infection.
Check pillow position and sleeping pattern
Avoid sleeping positions that encourage snoring; this can reduce stress on your respiratory system.
Extra tips
Avoid chemical nasal decongestants if you tend to have bloody phlegm or have a generally dry nose. Decongestants naturally cause dryness and can damage the blood vessels in your nose.
Check your blood pressure and try to keep it at a healthy level.
Talk to your specialist to check the medications you take to prevent them from causing blood in your phlegm.
Even if the condition is mild, if the blood in the sputum does not subside within a few days, consult a specialist.