Blood coming from the mouth can stem from various causes, ranging from minor injuries to serious underlying health conditions. It's crucial to understand the potential sources to determine the appropriate course of action.
Common Causes of Mouth Bleeding:
- Minor Injuries: Cuts or abrasions inside the mouth (lips, tongue, cheeks), or injuries to the gums from brushing or flossing too vigorously can cause bleeding. These typically stop on their own with minimal intervention. Source: Cuts and Wounds of the Mouth and Lips - Health Encyclopedia
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis): Bleeding gums are a common symptom of gum disease. Inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to easy bleeding during brushing or flossing. Source: Bleeding gums and dental bleeding | healthdirect
- Dental Procedures: Following dental extractions, procedures, or trauma to the mouth, bleeding is expected for a short period. Source: ER of Texas
- Infections: Respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia can sometimes cause bloody sputum (saliva mixed with mucus). Source: Coughing up blood (blood in phlegm) | nidirect
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including blood clotting disorders or anticoagulant medications, increase the risk of bleeding, including bleeding from the mouth. [Source: Bleeding from the mouth could occur from infection, anticoagulant medications, underlying health issues, or untreated injuries caused by trauma to the mouth, throat, or chest.]
- Trauma: Injuries to the mouth, throat, or chest can result in bleeding that manifests in the mouth. [Source: Bleeding from the mouth could occur from infection, anticoagulant medications, underlying health issues, or untreated injuries caused by trauma to the mouth, throat, or chest.]
- Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause mouth sores which are prone to bleeding. Source: Mouth sores caused by cancer treatment: How to cope - Mayo Clinic
When to Seek Medical Attention:
Persistent, heavy bleeding, bleeding accompanied by other symptoms (dizziness, shortness of breath), or bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure warrants immediate medical attention.
Important Note:
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis) is different from bleeding directly from the mouth. Hemoptysis originates in the lungs or respiratory tract and is often frothy or streaked with blood. Source: Hemoptysis (Coughing Up Blood) | Temple Health
