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Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a lung disorder in which the blood pressure in the pulmonary artery rises far above normal levels. It is usually inherited or caused by unknown reasons.

In the U.S. and France, pulmonary hypertension has been associated with the appetite suppressants fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine, which were taken off the market in 1997. In the U.S., there are an estimated 300 new cases diagnosed each year. It is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40; however, anyone can develop it.

Risks of pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension may be due to genetic or unknown factors. Researchers believe the blood vessels are particularly sensitive to certain internal or external factors, and constrict, or narrow, when exposed to these factors, such as an immune system factors, or sensitivity to drugs or other chemicals.

Secondary pulmonary hypertension occurs as a result of the effects of other conditions which may include diseases of the heart or lungs, a blood clot in the lungs or a condition called scleroderma.

Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension

The following are the most common symptoms for pulmonary hypertension. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

  • fatigue
  • difficulty in breathing (dyspnea)
  • dizziness
  • fainting spells (syncope)
  • swelling in the ankles or legs (edema)
  • bluish lips and skin (cyanosis)
  • chest pain (angina)
  • racing pulse
  • trouble getting enough air
  • palpitations, strong throbbing sensations brought on by increased heart rate

More severe symptoms indicate a more advanced disease. In advanced stages, the patient:

  • is able to perform minimal activities
  • has symptoms even when resting
  • may become bedridden if the disease becomes worse

The symptoms of pulmonary hypertension may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is rarely discovered in a routine medical examination, and in its later stages, the signs of the disease can be confused with other conditions affecting the heart and lungs.

Pulmonary hypertension is a diagnosis of exclusion. Diagnostic procedures may include:

  • Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) - a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias) and detects heart muscle damage.
  • Echocardiogram (echo) - a procedure that evaluates the structure and function of the heart by using sound waves recorded on an electronic sensor that produce a moving picture of the heart and heart valves.
  • Pulmonary function tests - diagnostic tests that help to measure the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide appropriately. The tests are usually performed with special machines into which the person must breathe.
  • Perfusion lung scan - a nuclear medicine procedure that can detect a blood clot in the artery leading to the lung. This procedure can also assess the function of the lungs.
  • Cardiac catheterization - a procedure that evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle, blockage of coronary arteries, congenital heart defects, functioning of the heart valves and other heart structures. A small catheter is advanced from a blood vessel in the groin or arm through the aorta to the heart. 

Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension

Specific treatment will be determined by your physician based on:

  • your age, overall health and medical history
  • extent of the disease
  • your tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies
  • expectations for the course of the disease
  • your opinion or preference

Treatment may include one or more of the following:

1. medications

  • anticoagulants - to decrease the tendency of the blood to clot and permit blood to flow more freely
  • diuretics - to decrease the amount of fluid in the body and reduce the amount of work the heart has to do
  • drugs - to help lower blood pressure in the lungs and improve the performance of the heart in many patients
  • calcium channel blocking drugs - to improve the heart's ability to pump blood
2. supplemental oxygen
  • Some patients also require supplemental oxygen delivered through nasal prongs or a mask if breathing becomes difficult. 
3. lung transplantation

Beaumont' specialized Pulmonary Hypertension Center is designed to evaluate, diagnose and provide a customized treatment plan for people with even the most complex forms of the disease. Call 248-964-2693 for more information or to schedule an appointment.