Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. While it may begin gradually, over time it can significantly impact breathing, energy levels, and heart function. For many patients, especially older adults or those with other chronic conditions, early diagnosis and ongoing care are essential.
At Paloma Medical Group, we provide comprehensive, physician-directed care for patients facing pulmonary hypertension, offering timely diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and continuity of care across outpatient and hospital settings.
Here’s what you should know about the causes and treatment options for this condition.
What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) occurs when the pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs becomes too high. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood through narrowed or stiffened vessels, which can lead to strain on the right side of the heart.
Over time, untreated pulmonary hypertension can lead to symptoms like:
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- Fatigue
- Chest pain or pressure
- Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Rapid heartbeat
Because these symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, like heart failure or asthma, it’s important to see a specialist for accurate testing and diagnosis.
What Causes Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension isn’t a single disease but a complex condition with multiple potential causes. It’s classified into five main groups based on its origin:
1. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
This type occurs when the small arteries in the lungs become narrowed or damaged, making it harder for blood to flow. It may be idiopathic (with no known cause) or related to conditions like:
- Connective tissue diseases (such as scleroderma or lupus)
- HIV infection
- Liver disease
- Certain genetic disorders
2. PH Due to Left Heart Disease
This is one of the most common types and results from conditions that affect the left side of the heart, such as:
- Heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction
- Mitral valve disease
- Aortic valve disease
When the left side of the heart can’t pump efficiently, it creates a backlog of pressure into the lungs.
3. PH Caused by Lung Disease or Low Oxygen
Chronic lung conditions can also contribute to pulmonary hypertension, including:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Interstitial lung disease
- Sleep apnea
- Long-term exposure to high altitudes or low oxygen environments
4. PH Due to Chronic Blood Clots
Pulmonary embolism or repeated blood clots in the lungs can scar the arteries and increase pressure. This condition is known as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).
5. PH With Unclear or Multifactorial Causes
Some cases are linked to multiple conditions or less common factors, such as certain blood disorders or metabolic diseases.
Because pulmonary hypertension can arise from so many causes, it’s critical to work with a physician who can take a comprehensive view of your health and medical history.
How Is Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnosed?
At Paloma Medical Group, our approach to diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical evaluation. You may undergo:
- Echocardiogram: A non-invasive ultrasound to look at heart structure and function
- Pulmonary function testing: To assess lung capacity and efficiency
- Chest X-ray or CT scan: To evaluate lung tissue and blood vessels
- Blood tests: To screen for underlying causes
- Right heart catheterization: A specialized procedure to directly measure pressure in the pulmonary arteries
Because we offer same-day pulmonary function testing and close coordination with local hospitals, we’re able to expedite the diagnostic process when needed.
Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment Options
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for pulmonary hypertension. At Paloma Medical Group, we tailor your care plan based on the type and severity of your condition, as well as any underlying causes. Treatment may include:
Medications
- Vasodilators to relax blood vessels and reduce pressure
- Endothelin receptor antagonists to block substances that tighten blood vessels
- Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors to improve blood flow
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
- Anticoagulants if there’s a risk of blood clots
Your physician will help determine the right combination of medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Oxygen Therapy
For patients with low oxygen levels or lung disease, supplemental oxygen can help reduce strain on the heart and ease breathing.
Lifestyle Modifications
Patients are often advised to:
- Limit physical exertion based on tolerance
- Avoid high altitudes
- Reduce sodium intake to minimize fluid retention
- Stay current on vaccinations (especially flu and pneumonia)
Advanced Therapies
In more severe or complex cases, surgical options may be considered. These include:
- Balloon pulmonary angioplasty for patients with chronic blood clots
- Lung transplantation, in rare cases where all other treatments are ineffective
Long-Term Care at Paloma Medical Group
Managing pulmonary hypertension is an ongoing process. Our practice is uniquely equipped to provide long-term, coordinated care—not only through our outpatient offices but also in affiliated hospitals, long-term care facilities, and skilled nursing settings.
You won’t have to worry about navigating the system alone. Our patients benefit from direct physician access, flexible scheduling, and a care team that remains involved through every stage of your journey.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms—Get Evaluated Today
If you’ve been experiencing unexplained shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling, don’t wait to get answers. Pulmonary hypertension can worsen if left untreated, but with early diagnosis and the right care plan, it can be managed.
Paloma Medical Group has offices in Laguna Hills and San Juan Capistrano, serving patients across South Orange County with expert pulmonary care.
Call 949-443-4303 today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward better breathing and a stronger heart.
