Treatments for pulmonary hypertension include targeted medical therapies, surgeries and other procedures, and supportive therapies such as oxygen or drugs that improve the function of the heart and lungs.
Although there is no cure for pulmonary hypertension, many treatment options are available and more are on the horizon. Early diagnosis and treatment often leads to better outcomes for patients.
Targeted medical treatments developed by years of research and development including clinical trials are available through a doctor’s prescription in oral, inhaled, subcutaneous (into the skin), and intravenous (into the vein) options. Many of these target Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension, although some are also prescribed for other groups.
Surgeries and procedures to address congenital heart issues that can lead to PH are often performed on children but also on adults where diagnosis is delayed. Depending on the severity of PH and the health of the individual, heart or lung transplant may also be an option. For those with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, specialized procedures can either remove old blood clots or open blocked or narrowed arteries. ECMO therapy is also used to help patients with low oxygen levels.
Supportive medical therapies that include calcium channel blockers, digoxin, diuretics, blood thinners and oxygen therapy are often prescribed by doctors in addition to targeted treatments or procedures. It is essential that you talk to your own doctor about what treatment options are best for you.
Targeted medications for pulmonary hypertension are the result of years of research and development, including clinical trials with patients. These treatments work by addressing chemical imbalances in the lungs.
Supportive medical therapies that may be prescribed for pulmonary hypertension include supplemental oxygen, diuretics and blood thinners among others. Caution is advised for over-the-counter medications.
Surgeries and interventional procedures for pulmonary hypertension include pulmonary thromboendarterectomy, balloon pulmonary angioplasty, atrial septostomy, reverse Potts shunt, and lung or heart-lung transplantation.
Supplemental oxygen helps increase oxygen levels in the blood and reduce symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.
Old blood clots in the lungs from Group 4 CTEPH can be targeted through pulmonary thromboendarterectomy or balloon pulmonary angioplasty. The PTE surgery can potentially cure a patient’s PH, while the BPA procedure offers an alternative that can help open blocked or narrowed arteries.
Learn more about which targeted treatments and therapies are often recommended for children and young adults.
Pediatric PH
It’s important to prevent interactions with your PH medications. Review some of the most common side effects experienced with targeted therapies.
Side effectsOver-the-counter medications and herbal supplements should be used cautiously if you have pulmonary hypertension because ingredients may affect the heart and lungs or interact with your PH therapies.
Managing Your Pulmonary Hypertension Medication
