PULMONARY HYPERTENSION: KNOW ITS BASIC INFORMATION

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Pharmeceutical-Medical )



What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension is a high blood pressure located in the arteries supplying blood and oxygen into the lungs. The blood vessels constrict and thicken preventing the supply of blood to lungs. The heart pumps hard to force the blood in. However, the heart eventually cannot keep up and less amount of blood is passing through the lungs to gather oxygen. A person suffering from pulmonary hypertension will encounter tiredness, dizziness and shortness of breath.

Causes

Congenital defects, connective tissue diseases, medication, HIV infection, blood clots and liver diseases are the most common causes of pulmonary hypertension.

Diagnosis

Chest x-ray, auto anti body blood tests, liver function test, echocardiograms, heart catheterization, pulmonary function test, ventilation perfusion scan, CAT scan and HIV test are the laboratory tests used to diagnose the presence of pulmonary hypertension. Tests diagnosing heart condition include chest x-ray, echocardiogram and heart catheterization. Tests diagnosing lung condition include pulmonary function test and CAT scan. Blood tests include ventilation perfusion scan and HIV test. Liver function test is done to determine the presence of cirrhosis.

These tests are done in an integrated manner to determine the functional condition of the lungs and heart to determine the presence of pulmonary hypertension. Also, the condition of other organs such as the liver is being tested since its condition will also manifest the presence of the disease.

Treatment

Medications to lower pressure on lung vessel and strengthen the function of the heart are used to treat symptoms of pulmonary hypertension. Transplantation of heart and lungs is also a last option to treat pulmonary hypertension. Patients are also relieved by supplemental oxygen to combat the condition.

Take Care of Yourself

Take proactive actions. Learn about pulmonary hypertension and its causes. Do not overexert yourself in doing exercise and other physically challenging activities. Talk to your doctor and join a support group to help you deal with pulmonary hypertension.


All rights Reserved © Tradenet Services srl
Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.