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Respiratory system Primary pulmonary hypertension

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Primary pulmonary hypertension

Alternative Names: Pulmonary arterial hypertension; Sporadic primary pulmonary hypertension; Familial primary pulmonary hypertension Treatment: There is no known cure. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms. Some people respond to treatment with oral medications, such as calcium channel blockers and diuretics. Others may need drugs like intravenous epoprostenol. Text Continues Below Recently, a new oral drug that blocks abnormal constriction of blood vessels has become available and shows promise in treating pulmonary hypertension. As the disease progresses, oxygen may be necessary. If all else fails, suitable candidates may be helped by lung or heart-lung transplantation. Support Groups: Pulmonary Hypertension Association Expectations (prognosis): The outlook has traditionally been poor, but new therapies may produce better results. Some people with this condition may develop progressive heart failure leading to death. Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if: You begin to develop shortness of breath when you are active Shortness of breath worsens Chest pain develops Other symptoms develop Most patients with primary pulmonary hypertension are treated at centers which specialize in the care of these patients.

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