Sneezing blood isn't common, and its cause usually stems from an issue in the nasal passages, not a systemic problem. It's often related to forceful nose blowing or sneezing itself.
Causes of Sneezing Blood
Several factors can cause blood to appear during or after a sneeze:
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Broken Blood Vessels: Forceful sneezing or nose blowing can rupture delicate blood vessels in your nasal passages. This is especially likely if you have a pre-existing condition that weakens blood vessels, or if you have dry or irritated nasal passages. [See Healthline and Medical News Today articles for further information on nosebleeds related to nose blowing.](https://www.healthline.com/health/blood-when-blowing-nose, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321021) This is the most frequent cause.
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Nasal Infections: Respiratory infections like colds or the flu can inflame nasal passages, making blood vessels more fragile and prone to bleeding during sneezing. This is mentioned on Quora.
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Underlying Medical Conditions: While less common, sneezing blood could signal a more serious underlying condition affecting blood clotting or your nasal passages. This is less likely, but further investigation may be required if bleeding is frequent or severe. Cleveland Clinic mentions the possibility of investigating bleeding disorders through blood tests and imaging.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Though often benign, seek medical attention if:
- You experience frequent or heavy bleeding during sneezing.
- The bleeding is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, severe headaches, or difficulty breathing.
- You have a history of bleeding disorders.
It's crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can pinpoint the cause and recommend appropriate management strategies.
