Blood in the lungs indicates serious health problems. The symptoms are varied. As well as possible causes.
The lungs supply the human body with oxygen and at the same time remove carbon dioxide from it – it is therefore a vital organ. However, there are cases in which blood appears in the lungs. This is an indication that there are serious health problems. The causes of blood in the lungs can be varied.
Blood in the lungs manifests itself through certain symptoms and complaints
Depending on the cause and severity of an illness, the symptoms of blood in the lungs can vary, such as: Focus Online reported. The following symptoms could occur:
- Coughing up bright red or foamy blood
- Chest pain (especially when inhaling)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (as blood can interfere with normal oxygenation)
- Feeling weak and generally unwell (especially if bleeding is heavy)
- Fever with blood in the lungs due to infection
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Blood in the lungs: Seven serious causes can be behind it
If you experience one or more of the symptoms of blood in the lungs, you should have them checked out by a doctor immediately. Because it usually hides serious health problems. The following triggers can cause blood in the lungs:
- Respiratory infections: Bronchitis or pneumonia are infections that damage the delicate vessels in the respiratory tract. This in turn can lead to bleeding.
- Blood clotting disorders: According to information from the hereditary disease hemophilia Paul Ehrlich Institute to a blood clotting disorder. Those affected have an increased risk of bleeding, including in the lungs.
- Heart disease: Heart valve problems or inflammation of the heart muscle can also cause bleeding by increasing pressure in the pulmonary vessels.
- Pulmonary embolism: If a blood clot gets stuck in the blood vessels that supply the lungs, a pulmonary embolism occurs. It can also be a trigger for blood in the lungs.
- Lung diseases: Tuberculosis and lung cancer damage lung tissue and can cause bleeding in the lungs.
- Medication: Blood-thinning medications in particular can, in rare cases, trigger blood in the lungs.
- Injuries: Falls or accidents e.g. B. by car can also be the cause of internal bleeding in the lungs.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about medical conditions.