About Haemoptysis
Key Highlights
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Enables direct visualization of the airways to locate the source of bleeding.Allows for targeted biopsies or cultures to diagnose underlying conditions like infection or cancer.Some therapeutic interventions, like cauterization, can be performed during the diagnostic bronchoscopy to stop active bleeding.Provides a definitive diagnosis, which is critical for guiding appropriate and timely treatment.Minimally invasive approach compared to surgical exploration.
Who is this surgery for?
- Coughing up bright red or rust-colored blood or blood-streaked sputum.
- Unexplained or recurrent episodes of haemoptysis.
- Suspected underlying conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung cancer.
- Abnormal findings on chest imaging (X-ray or CT scan) that require further investigation.
- History of lung disease, smoking, or recent chest trauma.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical history review and physical examination with the pulmonologist.
- Undergo necessary pre-procedure tests, which may include blood tests (coagulation profile, complete blood count) and imaging (chest X-ray, CT scan).
- Fast for 6-12 hours before the procedure if sedation or anesthesia is planned.
- Inform the doctor of all medications, especially blood thinners (like aspirin, warfarin), which may need to be temporarily stopped.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure due to the effects of sedation.
Risks & possible complications
- Common side effects include sore throat, hoarseness, or minor coughing after bronchoscopy.
- Risk of bleeding from the biopsy site, which is usually minor but can be significant.
- Infection or fever following the procedure.
- Low oxygen levels during the procedure.
- Rare complications include pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or adverse reaction to sedation/anesthesia.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Immediate post-procedure monitoring in a recovery area for 1-2 hours to watch for complications.
- Rest and avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for 24 hours due to sedation.
- Refrain from eating or drinking until the gag reflex returns to prevent choking (usually 1-2 hours).
- Expect a sore throat and mild cough for a day or two; throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles may help.
- Follow up with the pulmonologist to discuss biopsy results and the definitive treatment plan for the underlying cause of haemoptysis.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient or short observation)
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Expected recovery time: 1-2 days for procedure effects; recovery from underlying cause varies widely
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering haemoptysis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for haemoptysis in India include Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Manipal Hospital Varthur Road, Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform haemoptysis. MediFyr helps you compare pulmonologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for haemoptysis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 15 Thousand – 50 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient or short observation) | ~ 1-2 days for procedure effects; recovery from underlying cause varies widely | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 52.5 Thousand – 175 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient or short observation) | ~ 1-2 days for procedure effects; recovery from underlying cause varies widely | Know More |
Top hospitals for Haemoptysis in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated pulmonology teams and experience managing patients undergoing haemoptysis.
James Bhatia, a 58-year-old former construction...
James Bhatia, a 58-year-old former construction supervisor and lifelong smoker, had been experiencing a persistent, nagging cough for months, which he initially dismissed as a 'smoker's cough.' The alarming turning point came one morning when he coughed up a tablespoon of bright red blood into his sink. Terrified, he confided in his wife, who insisted he see a doctor immediately. His primary care physician, after a chest X-ray showed a concerning shadow, urgently referred him to a pulmonologist, Dr. Agarwal. Dr. Agarwal recommended a bronchoscopy to investigate the source of the haemoptysis. The procedure was anxiety-inducing; James felt a profound sense of vulnerability as he was sedated. The bronchoscopy revealed a benign but highly vascularized bronchial tumor. It was treated during the procedure with laser therapy to stop the bleeding. In recovery, James was groggy but relieved to learn it wasn't cancer. The emotional journey was a rollercoaster from sheer panic and guilt over his smoking to immense relief and a renewed commitment to his health. He quit smoking that very week and, at his 6-month follow-up, was completely recovered, his cough gone, and filled with gratitude for a second chance.
Pulmonologists for Haemoptysis
Explore experienced pulmonologists who regularly perform haemoptysis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 15 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 23 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 24 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 22 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 20 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 35 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 33 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
- 33 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 32 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Hyderabad
- 32 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida
- 29 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
- 26 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 15 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, vijayawada
- 14 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 12, Noida
- 12 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 8 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 7 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 12, Noida
- 6 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 4 Years Experience
- Pulmonologist
Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, vijayawada