Pulmonary Services
The Pulmonary Department at Edward White Hospital offers a multidisciplinary team who is specifically trained in pulmonary hypertension therapies. Physician Specialists, Respiratory Therapists, Nurses, Case Managers, Dieticians, Pharmacists and Rehabilitation staff. Services are offered on an Inpatient and Outpatient basis.
Pulmonary Hypertension FAQs:
When Does Pulmonary Hypertension Occur?
Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) occurs when the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries (the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs) becomes higher than normal putting additional work and stress on the right side of the heart. It is a chronic condition that can become life threatening. It affects people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds.
What are the Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension?
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Feeling tired
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Swollen ankles, legs or abdomen
- Symptoms usually limit exercise and other activities
What are the Common Causes of Pulmonary Hypertension?
- Congenital heart defects
- Connective tissue disease – Sclerodema, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis
- HIV infection
- Chronic liver disease
- Certain diet drugs
- Sickle Cell Anemia
How is Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnosed?
The following tests and procedures are used for evaluation of heart and lung function:
- Heart Catheterization
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram
- Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
- Lab Studies
- Chest X-rays
- CT Scans
- MRI
- Nuclear Scans
- Cardiac Stress Testing
What is the Conventional Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension?
- Anticoagulants
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Diuretics
- Oxygen
- NOT SMOKING
- Eating a well balanced diet
- Staying physically active
- Specific Vasodilator Therapy:
- Nitro
- Hydralazine
- Imdur
- Minoxidil
What is the Next Step?
Talk to your physician today about the services offered at Edward White Hospital of St. Petersburg.
For Physician Referral call 1-888-243-3627. Call the Pulmonary Hypertension Association Help Line 1-800-748-7274.
Our service makes finding a doctor and making an appointment easier by providing information about physicians affiliated with HCA hospitals.
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