Bloody Phlegm

[LordTerrarz]

I guess like a lot of Bronchiectasis sufferers, I have a routine of clearing my chest of phlegm every morning. For the first time in my 75 yr old life I brought up what looked like bits of kidney coloured phlegm this morning, which I suppose is old blood. Is this a symptom of bronchiectasis ?

[Hidden]

Hi LordTerraz yes it can be. Some bronchs tend to have more episodes than others. It sounds as though it is 'old' blood which could be a sign that you have been or are currently experiencing an exacerbation. If it becomes bright red or frothy make sure that you get medical help. As Christmas is coming up it might be a good idea to see your GP and get 14 days of your usual antibiotic. I hope that helps a bit.

[LordTerrarz in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your comments which are most helpful and welcome. I haven't had any fresh evidence of blood and thankfully my sputum has returned to normal. I'm hoping it was caused by vigorous coughing bout yesterday which burst a blood vessel. Naturally I shall keep my fingers crossed in the hope it's a one off.

Btw my respitory nurse didn't return my call. Shall try my doctor if it returns.

Thanks again.

Best wishes for Christmas and a healthy New Year

Terry

[Hidden in reply to LordTerrarz]

Hopefully it has resolved itself and all will be fine foe Christmas now.

[corriena]

It can be and can be quite common among lung problems and nothing to worry about. But i think you should see your gp or respatry nurse just to be sure. The colour you describe sugests ti may be from a old infection but im not a expert. If you cant get a appointment ask for a phone call then you can decide between you if you need to be seen if you start to cough up fresh red blood call gp . 111. As this would suggest a fresh bleed. Take care

[Lyd12 in reply to corriena]

Coughing blood helped me get my diagnosis of bronchiectasis. I had had a year of infections, culminating in coughing up a frightening amount of blood,which lead to several tests. Since then smaller amounts, once in a while, always a bit scary, but believe its a small blood vessel burst.

[LordTerrarz in reply to corriena]

Thank you for your comments which are most helpful and welcome. I haven't had any fresh evidence of blood and thankfully my sputum has returned to normal. I'm hoping it was caused by vigorous coughing bout yesterday which burst a blood vessel. Naturally I shall keep my fingers crossed in the hope it's a one off.

Btw my respitory nurse didn't return my call. Shall try my doctor if it returns.

Thanks again.

Best wishes for Christmas and a healthy New Year

Terry