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Is Productive Cough With Yellow Mucus And Blood Streaks A Concern?
Question: I have been on 500 mg penicillin for 3 days now treating strep throat and have been feeling better each day. Today I began to cough up yellow mucus with large streaks of blood. So this something I should worry about or is it just part of the healing process
Brief Answer:
Most likely not concerning.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
If you are feeling progressively better (resolution of fever, more energy, less throat pain), then I would let it go. It may be that your infection was not just in your throat, and the antibiotic is treating this, allowing your body to clear it out.
The streaks of blood can just be from a broken small blood vessel from the irritation.
As long as you are continuing to feel better, I would let this go. Get as much rest as you can to allow your body to heal.
If you start having a return of fevers or higher fevers, or increased cough and shortness of breath, then it is time to go back in and make sure there is not something else brewing. However, likely you are on the mend.
I hope this information helps.
Most likely not concerning.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
If you are feeling progressively better (resolution of fever, more energy, less throat pain), then I would let it go. It may be that your infection was not just in your throat, and the antibiotic is treating this, allowing your body to clear it out.
The streaks of blood can just be from a broken small blood vessel from the irritation.
As long as you are continuing to feel better, I would let this go. Get as much rest as you can to allow your body to heal.
If you start having a return of fevers or higher fevers, or increased cough and shortness of breath, then it is time to go back in and make sure there is not something else brewing. However, likely you are on the mend.
I hope this information helps.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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