Overview
Hemoptysis is the coughing up of blood from the respiratory tract. It ranges from small streaks of blood to massive bleeding and can signal underlying lung or cardiovascular disease. In Korea, specialized pulmonology and thoracic centers provide diagnosis, treatment, and management of hemoptysis using modern imaging, interventional procedures, and hospital care.
What is Hemoptysis?
Hemoptysis occurs when blood is expelled from the lungs, bronchi, or trachea due to bleeding in the respiratory tract. Causes can range from mild infections to serious conditions like lung cancer, tuberculosis, or pulmonary embolism. Prompt evaluation is crucial to identify and treat the underlying cause.
Symptoms
- Coughing up blood (bright red or rust-colored)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fever (if infection is present)
- Weakness or fatigue
- Night sweats (in some infections like TB)
Causes
- Respiratory infections (bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis)
- Chronic lung diseases (COPD, bronchiectasis)
- Lung cancer or tumors
- Pulmonary embolism or vascular malformations
- Trauma or foreign body aspiration
Risk Factors
- Smoking or exposure to air pollutants
- History of lung disease or infections
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Recent respiratory infections
- Family history of pulmonary disorders
Complications
- Severe or massive bleeding causing respiratory failure
- Anemia from chronic blood loss
- Shock in case of significant hemorrhage
- Worsening of underlying lung conditions
- Hospitalization and intensive care if bleeding is uncontrolled
Prevention
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
- Prompt treatment of respiratory infections
- Regular monitoring for chronic lung diseases
- Vaccinations against influenza and pneumonia
- Protective measures in high-risk occupations (dust, chemicals)
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Chest X-ray to detect underlying lung abnormalities
- CT scan of the chest for detailed imaging of bleeding sources
- Bronchoscopy to locate and assess the site of bleeding
- Blood tests to evaluate coagulation and anemia
- Sputum tests for infections like tuberculosis
Medical & Interventional Treatments
- Medications: Antibiotics for infections, anticoagulant management, hemostatic agents
- Bronchoscopic interventions to control localized bleeding
- Embolization of bleeding vessels via interventional radiology
- Surgery (lobectomy or resection) in severe or recurrent cases
- Supportive care including oxygen therapy and fluid management
Rehabilitation and Support
- Pulmonary rehabilitation for lung recovery
- Smoking cessation programs
- Nutritional counseling to support recovery
- Monitoring for recurrence of hemoptysis
