Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary Hypertension Horizons: Insights, Support, and Resilience

Welcome to Universal Hospital, where we prioritize your cardiovascular health. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to providing advanced and personalized treatment options for individuals facing pulmonary hypertension.

Understanding Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a rare but serious condition characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which supply blood to the lungs. This increased pressure can strain the heart and lead to progressive damage, affecting the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. Pulmonary hypertension is a chronic condition that can worsen over time.

Causes

The causes of pulmonary hypertension can vary depending on the type:

  • Idiopathic PAH: The cause is unknown.
  • Hereditary PAH: Caused by genetic factors.
  • Left Heart Disease: Conditions such as heart failure or valve disorders.
  • Lung Diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease, and others.
pulmonary hypertension

Types of Pulmonary Hypertension

There are several types of pulmonary hypertension, classified into different groups based on their causes. The five main groups are:

  • Group 1 – Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): This group includes idiopathic PAH, hereditary PAH, and PAH associated with other conditions.
  • Group 2 – Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease: Resulting from conditions affecting the left side of the heart, such as heart failure.
  • Group 3 – Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Lung Disease: Caused by lung diseases or hypoxia (low oxygen levels).
  • Group 4 – Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH): Arising from blood clots in the lungs.
  • Group 5 – Pulmonary Hypertension with Unclear or Multifactorial Mechanisms: Including various rare conditions and those with unclear causes.
Pulmonary Hypertension

Symptoms

Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension can include:

  • Shortness of Breath: Particularly during physical activity.
  • Fatigue: A persistent feeling of tiredness.
  • Chest Pain: Discomfort or pressure in the chest.
  • Dizziness or Fainting: Resulting from reduced blood flow.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing pulmonary hypertension involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

  • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function.
  • Right Heart Catheterization: A procedure to measure pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
  • CT Scan or MRI: To identify underlying causes and assess lung and heart function.

Treatment

Treatment for pulmonary hypertension aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Depending on the type and severity, treatment options may include:

  • Medications: Vasodilators, anticoagulants, and other drugs to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
  • Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen to improve oxygen levels in the blood.
  • Lung Transplant: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective.

Living with Pulmonary Hypertension

Living with pulmonary hypertension involves:

  • Regular Medical Monitoring: Monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatment as needed.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Managing stress, staying physically active within recommended limits, and maintaining a heart-healthy diet.
  • Support Groups: Connecting with others who have pulmonary hypertension for shared experiences and emotional support.

Chest Physician & Intensivist

Interventional Pulmonologist

ECMO Specialist

Chest Physician & Intensivist

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