Pulmonary Hypertension

Texas Multi-Specialty Group

Pulmonologists, Allergists, & Sleep Medicine Doctors located in Houston, TX & Cypress, TX

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex and often misunderstood condition that requires specialized care for proper management and treatment. The team at Texas Multi-Specialty Group provides detailed guidance and treatment for all causes of PH, so you can get relief from your symptoms. With locations in Cypress and Houston, Texas, you can get dedicated PH care at your convenience. Call one of the locations or use the online tool to schedule your visit today.

Pulmonary Hypertension Q & A

What is pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is high blood pressure in your heart-to-lung system. With PH, the blood vessels in your lungs become stiff, damaged, or narrow, and your heart must work harder to pump blood through your lungs.

Common signs of PH include:

Visible or enlarged veins on the side of the neck
Swelling in the abdomen, legs, or feet
Fatigue
Lightheadedness or fainting
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Heart palpitations

There are five different categories of PH, all of which have different causes and treatment approaches. The team at Texas Multi-Specialty Group has expertise in proper care and management of all categories.

What causes pulmonary hypertension?

PH has many causes which determine the type of PH you have. Common causes of PH include:

Inherited (genetic)
Drug or toxin exposure
Connective tissue disease
Liver disease
Mitral valve disease
Long-term high blood pressure
COPD
Sleep apnea
Pulmonary embolism (blood clots)

Your heart-to-lung system is an essential part of your body that requires specialized treatment if it’s affected by other conditions.

How is pulmonary hypertension diagnosed?

If you have a lung condition or show signs of PH, the team begins your visit with a thorough medical history and physical examination. They ask about any medical conditions you have and the symptoms you’re experiencing.

During your exam, your provider listens to your heart and lungs to check for abnormal sounds. Additional testing for PH includes sleep studies and pulmonary function tests, which can be done in the office.

With these tests, the team studies the function of your heart and lungs to determine the cause of your symptoms and rule out any other possible causes like sleep apnea or COPD. Additional testing may be required to visualize the blood vessels in your lungs so that the team can determine the severity of your PH.

How is pulmonary hypertension treated?

PH treatment will depend on the type of PH you have. In many cases, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise can reduce your symptoms.

Other strategies for management involve treating the underlying conditions that caused or worsen your PH. This may include medications for high blood pressure, infections, or blood clots.

PH can be a scary, confusing diagnosis, but support and treatment can help. Call Texas Multi-Specialty Group, or schedule a visit online now to get started.