Blood in Sputum: May be hard to find source, as bleeding is not constant. Three sources: upper airway, lower airway, and digestive. A complete upper airway endoscopy can be performed by an ENT to look for upper sources. But, it may be "normal" between episodes. My routine: chest x-ray, upper airway endoscopy, and depending upon risk factors, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (look into esophagus and stomach). See an ent.
Answered 11/6/2014
5.7k views
Sputum blood: This can be a serious issue. Sputum from coughing is different than saliva. If you had a torn capillary on the tongue you would have blood in the saliva for only a short time until it clotted. Recurring blood in the sputum is serious and you should have your lungs evaluated.
Answered 4/20/2013
5.2k views
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
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