Pulmonary hypertension is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. In a healthy heart, the right side of the heart pumps blood through the lungs, where it picks up oxygen and is returned to the left side of the heart to be pumped throughout the body. Pulmonary hypertension occurs when the small arteries (blood vessels) of the lungs become narrowed and cannot carry as much blood to the lungs, resulting in pressure buildup.

Symptoms

Breathlessness on exertion
Chest pain (angina pectoris)
Dizziness upon standing, climbing stairs, straightening up from a bent position or even while just sitting
Fainting (syncope)
Loss of energy
Swollen ankles and legs (edema)
Depression
Dry cough

Risk Factors

Family history of pulmonary hypertension
Obesity combined with obstructive sleep apnea
Gender (pulmonary hypertension occurs two and a half times more often in women than in men)
Other diseases such as:
- Congenital heart disease
- Lung disease
- Liver disease
- Lupus
- Scleroderma
History of methamphetamine use
Prior use of the diet drug fen-phen

Screening

If you are experiencing symptoms or have one or more risk factors for pulmonary hypertension, call Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute’s Pulmonary Hypertension Program to set up an appointment with one of our specialists. During your screening, a specialist will discuss your medical and family history and any possible risk factors with you before performing a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to determine the next steps.

Reduce Your Risk

If you do not currently have any of the symptoms or risk factors that can lead to pulmonary hypertension, living a healthy lifestyle can prevent you from ever developing the disease. A healthy lifestyle means staying active, limiting your alcohol consumption, and avoiding nicotine and drugs, among other healthy habits.

There currently are no medications that totally cure pulmonary hypertension, but many treatment options are available to reduce symptoms. The complexity of this illness has motivated physicians at Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute’s Pulmonary Hypertension Program to develop a comprehensive, signature program to meet the needs of those with pulmonary hypertension. The multidisciplinary program includes multiple clinical units working together for quality outcomes. Our team utilizes extensive research and experience to develop customized treatment options for each patient.

1222 S. Orange Ave. | Orlando, FL 32806
(321) 841-6444

To learn more, visit OrlandoHealth.com/Heart

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