Pulmonary Hypertension Care in Mt. Airy and Kernersville, NC
Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition that requires specialized monitoring and treatment. Our pulmonology team offers the testing and ongoing care needed to manage this condition and protect your heart and lung health.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. Over time, the extra strain can weaken the heart muscle, making early diagnosis and consistent monitoring important.
Common Symptoms
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- Fatigue
- Chest pain or pressure
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- A racing heartbeat
What Causes Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension can develop on its own or as a result of other conditions, including certain lung diseases, heart conditions, blood clots, or connective tissue disorders. Identifying the underlying cause is an important part of building an effective treatment plan.
How We Diagnose Pulmonary Hypertension
Diagnosis often involves a combination of testing, including a six minute walk test to assess your functional capacity, along with other pulmonary function tests and imaging, to help confirm the diagnosis and gauge severity.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and severity of your condition, and may include medications to manage blood pressure in the lungs, oxygen therapy, and close monitoring of heart and lung function over time.
Pulmonary Hypertension FAQs
Is pulmonary hypertension the same as regular high blood pressure?
No, pulmonary hypertension specifically affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart, rather than blood pressure throughout the whole body.
What are the warning signs of pulmonary hypertension?
Common warning signs include shortness of breath during activity, fatigue, chest pain, dizziness, and swelling in the legs or ankles.
How is pulmonary hypertension diagnosed?
Diagnosis often includes a six minute walk test, pulmonary function testing, and imaging to assess lung and heart function.
Can pulmonary hypertension be cured?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. While it often can’t be fully cured, many patients can manage symptoms effectively with the right care plan.
What other conditions can cause pulmonary hypertension?
It can be linked to certain lung diseases, heart conditions, blood clots, or connective tissue disorders, which is why identifying the underlying cause matters.
Will I need ongoing monitoring?
Yes, regular follow-up visits and periodic testing help track your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Does pulmonary hypertension affect exercise tolerance?
Yes, many patients notice reduced stamina and shortness of breath with activity, which is part of why the six minute walk test is used to assess functional status.
Get the Specialized Care You Need
Our team is here to help you manage pulmonary hypertension with confidence.