Coughing up blood can be caused by a variety of lung conditions. Coughing up blood can take different forms: The blood may be bright red or pink and frothy, or it may be mixed with mucus.

Also known as hemoptysis (he-MOP-tih-sis), coughing up blood, even in small amounts, can be alarming. However, producing a little blood-tinged sputum isn't uncommon and usually isn't serious.

Call 911 or seek emergency care if you're coughing up blood in large quantities or coughing up blood frequently.

The major cause of coughing up blood is chronic bronchitis or bronchiectasis. Other possible causes of coughing up blood include:

1. COPD
2. Cystic fibrosis
3. Drug use, such as crack cocaine
4. Foreign body
5. Wegener's granulomatosis
6. Lung abscess
7. Lung cancer
8. Emphysema
9. Mitral valve stenosis
10. Parasitic infection
11. Pneumonia
12. Pulmonary embolism
13. Trauma to the chest
14. Tuberculosis

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Source: mayoclinic.org