I have had many hemoptysis episodes over the past year, not just pink in sputum but many clots that were scary to view the first time it happened. The clots were large and dark red, like maroon, ranging from specks to an inch in size. The coughing covered about 10 minutes so it wasn't just a one cough event. Each time I went to the ER but the fifth time I went the on-duty physician said, after viewing the pictures I had taken, that even though the clots looked scary, it wasn't necessary to go to the ER each time. These episodes are just part of bronchiectasis (and in my case MAC too). Each time I have an episode, I take pictures, which I would suggest you do also.

Most doctors say that if you are coughing up pure blood of a tablespoon or more, it may indicate a pulmonary embolism and an ER visit would be necessary. I won't be going to the ER anytime soon unless I'm scared I may have an embolism. I have found I can't use saline and my ID doctor has told me not to include it. The saline is too strong and causes a hemoptysis event for me each time. Same with Albuterol.

I walk 1-3 miles a day, depending on how I feel but on days I don't feel well, I push myself to walk some anyway.

Just know you aren't alone. But also accept the hemoptysis as part of our diseases. I too never know when the next one will occur but when it does happen, I move on. We cannot allow this to control our lives. Wishing you the best!