Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a general term used to describe high blood pressure in the lungs from any cause. PH is a serious disease that can take a significant toll on your energy and activity levels and, if left untreated, may lead to right heart failure. Orlando Health Medical Group Lung and Sleep Medicine offers advanced diagnostic and treatment therapies to address your specific type of PH.

Types of Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is classified into five groups, based on the different causes:

Symptoms

Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension may include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness or fainting spells
  • Chest pain
  • Swollen ankles, legs and abdomen
  • Bluish color lips and skin
  • Heart palpitations and fast pulse rate

Diagnosis

Your physician will order specialized tests to determine if you have PH. Testing often begins with an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound examination of the heart. If the results of tests point to PH, a right heart cardiac catheterization will be performed. This is the gold standard for diagnosing PH, and the results can also help determine the type of PH you have.

Treatment

The different types of PH require different treatment. Our pulmonary specialists may customize a combination of medications to manage the high pressure within the arteries of your lungs, reducing the pumping load on your heart. Medications may include blood thinners to prevent blood clots, diuretics to reduce fluid retention and supplemental oxygen to improve oxygen levels. Surgery may be recommended depending on your type of PH. We also offer a comprehensive patient education program on the causes and treatment of your PH, which may include lifestyle changes.