In addition to a specialized physician such as a cardiologist or pulmonologist with experience in PH, your PH care team may include nurses, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, social workers and other professionals. Each plays a role in different parts of your care. 

Questions to ask your care team

Whether you are seeking a second opinion and choosing a doctor, or have a care team in place, there are many questions you may want to ask. Use this list as a tool to get the answers that matter to you. You can ask questions over multiple appointments and ask more than once until you get the information you need.

• How often should I see you?
• How do I contact members of the PH care team?
• What do you consider an urgent change in my health that I should call you about that day or the next day? Who should I contact?
• When should I go to the emergency room? Who on my PH team should I contact in an emergency?
• What medical tests will I need? How often will I need them?
• What treatment options are available?
• How often should I get a right-heart catheterization?
• What medications will I be taking for my PH? Why?
• What are possible side effects of the medication?
• How much will my medication cost?
• Are there financial assistance programs to help with medication costs?
• How active can I be. Are there activities I should avoid?
• Do I need to make any changes to my diet?
• Do you recommend any other lifestyle changes?

When is it an emergency?

Do you have a leak in your central line? Did you lose consciousness? Are you having trouble breathing? Learn more about emergencies and when to call your care team or dial 911.

Urgent PH symptoms