Hoarseness or wheezing may also occur. Treating the cause is always the first option when possible. If the causative factor cannot be resolved, the cough is treated according to its characteristics. Other cough suppressants are sometimes used. See discussion above of treatment of dyspnea.
Antihistamines occasionally help.
A large amount of blood is usually a grave sign that death is near. Tumors in the esophagus may also produce hemoptysis. Infections that can cause hemoptysis include pneumonia, candidaisis, aspergillosis, and tuberculosis. Pulmonary embolus, and sometimes other cardiac problems may also cause hemoptysis. As with other problems of advanced disease, the first option is treatment of the cause when possible.