Blood in sputum?
Hello, doctor.
I experienced difficulty swallowing and chest pain, so I underwent an endoscopy with biopsy last week.
The endoscopy indicated only some reflux.
However, this morning when I woke up, I noticed that my phlegm had turned slightly brown.
Then, just this afternoon, I suddenly felt phlegm again, and there was blood in it, although I haven't had any coughing or sore throat symptoms.
Now, the phlegm is normal.
Could this be related to the endoscopy? I had throat pain for three to four days after the procedure.
yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/24
Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! Based on your description, the relationship between hemoptysis and gastroscopy is minimal.
It is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist and an otolaryngologist.
Reply Date: 2021/10/24
More Info
The presence of blood in sputum after undergoing an endoscopy, such as a gastroscopy, can be concerning for patients. In your case, it seems that you experienced some throat pain for a few days following the procedure, which is not uncommon. The endoscopic procedure can sometimes cause irritation or minor trauma to the throat and esophagus, leading to transient symptoms such as soreness and, in some cases, minor bleeding.
When you mention that you noticed brownish sputum followed by blood in your phlegm, it is essential to consider a few factors. First, the brown color can indicate the presence of old blood, which may have originated from minor abrasions or irritation caused during the endoscopy. The fact that you did not experience any coughing or throat pain at the time of noticing blood is also noteworthy. This could suggest that the bleeding is not from a significant source, especially if the blood was minimal and resolved quickly.
It is important to note that while minor bleeding can occur after procedures like endoscopy, persistent or significant bleeding should be evaluated further. If the blood in your sputum continues or if you develop additional symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation, such as imaging studies or additional endoscopic procedures, to rule out any underlying issues.
In summary, while it is possible that the blood in your sputum is related to the recent endoscopy, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes or if the symptoms persist, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide you with the appropriate guidance and reassurance based on your specific situation.
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