Hemoptysis vs Hematemesis: Key Differences Explained

Hemoptysis vs Hematemesis: Key Differences Explained

Question.  How Will You Differentiate Hemoptysis From Hematemesis?

Answer.

Question. Outline The Investigation And Management Of Hemoptysis.

Answer. Hemoptysis is defined as the expectoration of blood from the respiratory tract, spectrum varies from blood streak of sputum to cough up or large amount of pure blood.

Hemoptysis Investigation

• Hemodynamic resuscitation and bronchoscopy are done.
• Chest radiograph for TB, pneumonia, tumor, pulmonary infarction.
• Full blood count and hematological tests.
• Bronchoscopy to exclude central bronchial carcinoma and to provide tissue diagnosis for the suspected.
• CT scan: For peripheral lesion investigation which is seen on chest radiograph.

Hemoptysis vs Hematemesis: Key Differences Explained

Hemoptysis Management

Hemoptysis vs Hematemesis Causes and Diagnosis

• Establishing a diagnosis is a first priority.
• When hemoptysis is maintained, adequate gas exchange preventing blood from the spleen into the unaffected area of lung and avoiding asphyxiation is the highest priority.
• Keeping the patient at rest and partially suppressing the cough is helpful to subside bleeding.
• If the origin of blood is known and is limited to one lung, the bleeding lung should be placed in the dependent position so that blood is not aspirated to the affcted lung.
• Endotracheal intubation and mechanical intubation are necessary to maintain the airways.
• Balloon catheters and inflating balloons at the bleeding site are helpful in control of the bleeding.
• Laser phototherapy, embolotherapy, and surgical resection of the involved area of the lung are the other methods.
  Surgical resection is done in life­threatening hemoptysis.