Pulmonary hypertension treatment at The Christ Hospital Health Network
If you are short of breath, dizzy, feeling tired, notice swelling in your lower limbs, or feel chest pain, make an appointment with your physician as soon as possible. Early diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) can lead to more effective treatment. There are different types of pulmonary hypertension. Most types are often not recognized until they are quite advanced.
Heart and lung tests
When we suspect PH, we will perform a series of tests. These tests tell us how well your heart and lungs are working and may include:
Echocardiogram – an ultrasound of the heart
Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a recording of the electrical current in the heart
Right heart catheterization – the direct measurement of pressure in the pulmonary arteries to see how well the heart is pumping blood to the body
Six-minute walk test to check breathing capacity
Medical treatment for PH
While there is no cure for pulmonary hypertension, our doctors offer effective new medications and treatment options. Your team of PH specialists will decide which medicine is best for you. We will watch you closely to see how well you respond to the treatment.
If you are prescribed medicines, they may be taken by mouth (orally), received through the vein (intravenous, IV) or breathed in (inhaled).
It may also become important for you to:
Take charge of your health
Pulmonary hypertension is a rare chronic condition. It can become life threatening if not properly cared for. Treatment for pulmonary hypertension is evolving rapidly, with more options to preserve lung function and improve your quality of life. It's vital for patients to be proactive and work with their care team to stay as healthy as possible.