It is, of course, impossible to provide you with a specific diagnosis over the Internet. I am concerned, however, that you could possibly have a blood clot in the veins of your left leg (deep venous thrombosis). When this condition occurs, sometimes these blood clots can break off and travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). In severe cases, pulmonary embolism can lead to decreased blood pressure, blood-tinged sputum, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. In very severe cases, pulmonary embolism can be a fatal disease. Secondly, coughing up bloody phlegm is always a cause for concern regarding, in addition to pulmonary embolism and respiratory infections, the possibility of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
You should immediately see your physician! If he/she is not available, then you should go to the emergency room.
Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
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