Patients with a family history of pulmonary hypertension should be considerate of their health if they exhibit any correlating symptoms. The condition requires immediate medical attention as it can be life-threatening. It is essential for the individuals to visit a pulmonologist in Lahore who can help in diagnoses. The specialist assists in treatment that can increase life expectancy and quality.
What is pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is a lung ailment. In this condition, the arteries get narrowed down and affect the blood flow. Due to this, the blood pressure escalates and inserts strain on the right ventricle of the heart. It results in expansion and weakens the right ventricle, which can cause heart failure.
What are the known causes of pulmonary hypertension?
The causes of pulmonary hypertension are:
- The condition can occur if the per has pre-existing illnesses such as rheumatic disorder, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and lupus erythematosus.
- Heart-related issues such as mitral valve disease and aortic valve disease can lead to pulmonary hypertension.
- Family history of the disease increases the chances of developing the condition; hence it is suitable to visit the specialist if the person experiences any symptoms.
- Thromboembolic disease is a condition, which causes blood clotting in the pulmonary artery and correlates with pulmonary hypertension.
- Obesity can cause complications, including pulmonary hypertension.
What are the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension?
The symptoms of pulmonary hypertension include:
- The person experiences fluctuation in a heartbeat
- The person might faint and experience dizziness
- The individual is unable to breathe while sleeping
- The person feel fatigued after doing minimal physical activity
- The skin color changes to blue, and the lips become darker in color.
- The patient experiences swelling in the ankles and abdominal area.
What tests assist in the diagnosis?
The test that helps in diagnosis include:
- CMP: A complete metabolic panel is a test that helps evaluate the functioning of kidneys and liver.
- Doppler Echocardiogram: Th procedure includes, using sound waves to evaluate the function of the right ventricle, blood flow, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure.
- Imaging Test: It provides an image of the right ventricle; that helps assess any changes in size.
- Polysomnogram: It is also known as overnight oximetry, in which oxygen levels are measured while the person is sleeping.
- V/Q Scan: The test helps in knowing if there is any blood clotting near the lungs.
- CT Scan: The scan assists in finding any other causes that might be contributing to the worsening of the symptoms related to pulmonary hypertension.
What treatments are proven effective for the disease?
The treatments available for easing the symptoms are:
- Using Blood Thinners: Decreases the chance of blood clotting
- Diuretics: The medication helps to reduce the water level in the body. It aids in lessening swelling and pain.
- Pulmonary Thromboendoarterectomy: The procedure involves removing blood clots from the arteries. It helps to increase the flow of the blood.
- Lung Transplantation: Transplant can help the patient to live normally.
What are the dietary guidelines to manage pulmonary hypertension?
The dietary changes that are necessary for the patient with pulmonary hypertension are:
- Low intake of salt
- Avoid canned food
- Reduce the intake of meat
- Try to have a calorie deficit
- Avoid sugar and bakery items
- Add dried fruits to your routine
- Intake of high fiber food
- Monitor the intake of fluids
It is evident that the individual exhibiting symptoms is at a higher risk of heart failure. Thus, it is necessary the focusing on the symptoms and seek medical help. People who want an expert opinion on the treatment that can help enhance their health condition should opt for a competent and verified pulmonologist from oladoc.com.