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Managing Your Pulmonary Hypertension
Managing Your Pulmonary Hypertension: Understanding and Treatment
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, which is responsible for carrying oxygen-poor blood from the right side of the heart to the lungs. Normally, the pulmonary artery pressure at rest is around 14 mmHg. Pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed when the pressure exceeds 25 mmHg at rest or 30 mmHg during exercise. This condition can be categorized into primary or secondary pulmonary hypertension.
Causes of Pulmonary Hypertension:
The cause of primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) remains unknown, and it is a rare and serious condition that predominantly affects women between the ages of 30 and 40. On the other hand, secondary pulmonary hypertension occurs in individuals with other underlying diseases, such as severe pulmonary disease (COPD), blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary emboli), or heart valve disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension:
The initial symptom of pulmonary hypertension is often fatigue, followed by breathing difficulties (dyspnea), dizziness, and fainting. Additional manifestations may include ankle or leg swelling (edema), bluish lips and skin, chest pain (angina), a racing pulse, a feeling of insufficient air intake, and palpitations (unusually strong or irregular heartbeats).
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension:
To diagnose pulmonary hypertension, other potential causes must be ruled out, such as emphysema, pulmonary emboli, heart valve disease, neurologic muscle disorders, and obstructive sleep disorder. Various tests, including blood tests, X-rays, echocardiography, pulmonary function tests, and imaging studies of the lungs, are conducted. Additional imaging techniques, such as nuclear scans, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be employed. In some cases, cardiac catheterization is performed to measure pulmonary artery pressures directly.
Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension:
The primary objective in managing pulmonary hypertension is to lower pulmonary artery pressures and improve oxygen levels. Oxygen therapy may be provided to increase oxygen levels. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities or exercises that can lead to reduced oxygen levels and worsen symptoms. Medications commonly used in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension include prostanoids (epoprostenol, treprostinil, iloprost, and beraprost), endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, blood thinners, calcium-channel blockers, and diuretics (water pills) to address leg and ankle swelling. In cases where these treatments do not alleviate shortness of breath at rest, lung or heart-lung transplantation may be considered as an option.
DOs and DON’Ts in Managing Pulmonary Hypertension:
DO:
- Understand that while primary pulmonary hypertension has no known cure, treatments can significantly improve quality of life.
- Seek care from experienced lung and heart specialists familiar with the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
- Contact your healthcare provider if shortness of breath worsens, or if you experience leg swelling, chest pain, or palpitations. If you are considering pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider, as pregnancy may not be advisable with pulmonary hypertension.
DON’T:
- Hesitate to seek a second opinion from another healthcare professional.
- Smoke, as it can worsen pulmonary hypertension and overall health.
- Use birth control pills, as they may increase the risk of blood clots.
For More Information:
For additional information about pulmonary hypertension, you can contact the following sources:
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Information Center at 301-592-8573 or visit their website: www.nhlbi.nih.gov
- Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) at 1(800) 748-7274
- American Lung Association at 800-LUNG-USA or visit their website: www.lungusa.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at their website: www.cdc.gov/DHDSP/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_pulmonary_hypertension.htm
Conclusion:
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, leading to various symptoms and potential complications. While the cause of primary pulmonary hypertension remains unknown, it is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. Effective treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with pulmonary hypertension. Seeking care from experienced specialists and adopting healthy lifestyle practices can contribute to better outcomes and overall well-being.
