Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious condition that can be difficult to diagnose. It is defined by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which puts a strain on the right side of the heart. At Premier Lung & Sleep Institute, we specialize in the comprehensive evaluation and management of PH, offering targeted treatments to improve your symptoms and quality of life.

Request an Appointment

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is not the same as regular high blood pressure. It is a specific type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in your lungs and the right side of your heart. When these arteries narrow, it becomes harder for blood to flow from the heart to the lungs, causing the pressure to rise and the heart to work harder.

Signs & Symptoms

PH symptoms can be subtle at first and often mimic other conditions. Common signs include:

  • Shortness of breath on exertion, such as walking up stairs or hills.
  • Unexplained fatigue or lightheadedness.
  • Leg swelling or fluid retention.
  • Chest discomfort.

How We Diagnose PH

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for identifying the underlying cause and determining the right treatment. Our diagnostic process includes:

  • Echocardiogram, labs, and imaging: Initial tests to evaluate your heart function and look for signs of PH.
  • Right-heart catheterization: This is the gold-standard procedure to confirm the diagnosis of PH. It directly measures the blood pressure in your lung arteries and helps us determine the best course of treatment.
  • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): We use PFTs to assess the lung’s contribution to your symptoms.
  • Sleep studies: If sleep apnea is suspected as a contributing factor, a sleep study may be recommended.

Treatment & Self-Care

PH treatment is highly personalized and depends on the specific “group” of your PH (e.g., PAH or PH related to lung disease). Our treatment plans may include:

  • Targeted vasodilator therapy: Medications that help relax and widen the blood vessels in your lungs.
  • Oxygen therapy: Supplemental oxygen to ease the strain on your heart and lungs.
  • Diuretics: Medicines to reduce leg swelling and fluid retention.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation: A supervised exercise program to improve your stamina and quality of life.
  • Evaluation for blood clots (CTEPH): We will evaluate for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and refer you to specialized PH centers if appropriate.

Why Choose Premier Lung & Sleep Institute for Your PH Care?

  • Precise Diagnosis: We offer on-site diagnostics and coordinate advanced procedures like right-heart catheterization.
  • Specialized Expertise: Our physicians are experienced in the complex diagnosis and management of PH.
  • Comprehensive Care: We address all potential contributing factors, from lung disease to sleep apnea.
  • Coordinated Referrals: We seamlessly coordinate care with major PH centers when advanced interventions are needed.