Throat Clearing: When to Seek Medical Attention - Otolaryngology

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Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if you mean that if there are blood streaks in saliva for more than a week without intentionally clearing the throat forcefully, it is still necessary to seek medical attention, correct? Because I only noticed the blood streaks after intentionally clearing my throat.
If I do not perform this action, I would not have discovered the blood streaks.
Additionally, if the nasopharyngeal examination shows no issues, should I also have further examinations for the esophagus, stomach, or thoracic cavity?

Guang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/01

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello, if the nasopharyngoscopy shows no issues, you may consider further examinations such as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to check for gastrointestinal bleeding or a bronchoscopy to investigate any problems within the trachea.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/05/01

More Info


When it comes to throat clearing and the presence of blood in saliva, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. If you notice blood streaks in your saliva, even if it only occurs when you intentionally clear your throat, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if this symptom persists for more than a week. Blood in saliva can be indicative of various underlying conditions, some of which may require prompt diagnosis and treatment.

The act of clearing your throat can sometimes irritate the throat lining, leading to minor bleeding, especially if there is an underlying issue such as inflammation or infection. However, the presence of blood should not be ignored, as it can also signal more serious conditions. If you are only noticing blood when you clear your throat, it may not seem alarming, but the fact that it is present at all warrants further investigation.

In your case, since you mentioned that a nasopharyngeal examination did not reveal any issues, it would be prudent to consider additional evaluations. Conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, or even the chest cavity can sometimes present with symptoms that include blood in saliva. For instance, esophageal conditions such as esophagitis, ulcers, or even varices can lead to bleeding that might manifest in saliva. Similarly, gastrointestinal issues like gastritis or peptic ulcers can also contribute to blood in the saliva if there is reflux or aspiration.

It is advisable to discuss with your healthcare provider the need for further examinations, which may include an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus and stomach, or imaging studies such as a chest X-ray or CT scan if deemed necessary. These tests can help rule out any serious conditions that may be causing the bleeding.

In summary, while throat clearing and the occasional presence of blood may not always indicate a severe problem, it is crucial to err on the side of caution. If you notice blood in your saliva, especially if it persists for more than a week, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional. They can guide you through the necessary evaluations to determine the underlying cause and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing health concerns effectively.

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