Cough Reflex Test (CRT) Practice

The presence of pink to red sputum is often associated with serious respiratory conditions, including tuberculosis and pulmonary edema. In tuberculosis, the sputum can sometimes appear blood-streaked due to the infection damaging the lung tissue and causing small blood vessels to bleed. This results in the characteristic discoloration of the sputum. Similarly, in cases of pulmonary edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, the fluid can mix with air and blood, leading to frothy, pink sputum. This coloration is a critical clinical sign that helps healthcare providers identify potential underlying conditions requiring prompt medical intervention. Therefore, recognizing the significance of pink to red sputum is essential for diagnosing and management in respiratory illnesses.