Causes of Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment
Medications are often the first line of treatment and are tailored to the patient’s specific type of pulmonary hypertension.
Endothelin Receptor Antagonists (ERAs): These help relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure in the lungs.
Examples: Bosentan, Ambrisentan.
Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors): These improve blood flow by dilating the pulmonary arteries.
Examples: Sildenafil, Tadalafil.
Prostacyclin Analogs: These mimic natural prostacyclin, helping widen the blood vessels and reduce pressure.
Examples: Epoprostenol, Treprostinil.
Soluble Guanylate Cyclase (sGC) Stimulators: Help arteries relax and increase blood flow.
Example: Riociguat.
Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs): Useful in a small group of patients who respond to vasodilator testing.
Examples: Amlodipine, Diltiazem.
Anticoagulants & Diuretics: These help prevent blood clots and reduce fluid buildup.
Used for patients with low blood oxygen levels. Oxygen helps ease the workload on the heart and lungs.
For advanced or specific types of pulmonary hypertension:
When pulmonary hypertension is secondary to another condition (e.g., COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea), addressing the root cause is key:
Before the Procedure
During the Procedure
After the Procedure
Pulmonary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, dizziness, and swelling in the legs or ankles.
While it is not typically curable, pulmonary hypertension can be effectively managed with medications and lifestyle changes.
It can be caused by heart or lung diseases, blood clots in the lungs, or may occur without a known cause (idiopathic).
Diagnosis includes physical exams, echocardiography, chest X-rays, right heart catheterization, and blood tests.
Treatments include medications, oxygen therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgical procedures like atrial septostomy or lung transplant.
Yes, pulmonary hypertension is classified into five groups based on its cause, including PAH and PH due to left heart or lung disease.
No, pulmonary hypertension affects the arteries in the lungs, whereas systemic hypertension affects the arteries throughout the body.
While not always preventable, managing risk factors like heart and lung diseases can reduce the chance of developing pulmonary hypertension.
With proper treatment and care, many patients can live for many years. Prognosis depends on the type and severity of the condition.
Yes, severe pulmonary hypertension can limit physical activities due to fatigue and breathlessness.
Yes, under a doctor’s supervision. Light to moderate physical activity is often recommended for stable patients.
Some forms, such as heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension (HPAH), are genetic. Genetic testing may be advised for families.
Avoid high-sodium foods, processed items, and excessive caffeine. A heart-healthy diet is recommended.
Untreated PH can lead to right-sided heart failure, blood clots, arrhythmias, and other serious complications.
Yes, although it’s rare. Pediatric pulmonary hypertension is managed by specialists in children’s cardiology and pulmonology.
In advanced cases or during a crisis, hospitalization may be needed for close monitoring and emergency treatment.
Yes. Pregnancy is high-risk in women with PH and requires specialized care and planning with a medical team.
Yes, there are local and online support groups that offer education, emotional support, and shared experiences.
Hyderabad has many top specialists in pulmonary hypertension. Call 040 67000 070 to consult with an experienced expert near you.