Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary Specialists in Fremont

Pulmonary hypertension—also called pulmonary arterial hypertension—is a specific form of high blood pressure that impacts the arteries located in your lungs as well as the arteries in the right side of your heart. Symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, and a feeling of pressure in the chest. Over time, this condition can deteriorate, getting steadily worse. Fortunately, treatment is available. Certain medications and oxygen therapy have been known to be greatly successful in assisting patients with pulmonary hypertension, helping them manage symptoms and achieve improved quality of life.

Risk Factors for Pulmonary Hypertension

Anyone can get this condition, but some risk factors that make an individual more susceptible include:

• A family history of pulmonary hypertension
• Women are 2.5 times more likely to get this condition than men; especially women of childbearing age
• Pregnancy
• Living at a high altitude for a long period of time
• Suffering from associated diseases such as liver disease, congenital heart disease, lupus and other connective tissue disorders, and lung disease
• Obesity with obstructive sleep apnea
• Use of certain drugs including methamphetamines and a diet pill known as “fen phen”

Living with Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension can be diagnosed using a number of medical tests, including but not limited to chest X-rays, blood tests, pulmonary function tests, echocardiograms, and more. There is no known cure for pulmonary hypertension, but there are effective treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve daily life. Some treatments include medications, surgery in the form of a heart or lung transplant, and oxygen therapies. Ask your doctor at Washington Health Medical Group in Fremont about options that are right for you.