Pulmonary Hypertension Care at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension is an uncommon progressive condition caused by a complex group of diseases that affects the blood vessels in the lungs, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Over time, this strain can cause low oxygen levels, fluid buildup, and right-sided heart failure, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

Without proper management, pulmonary hypertension can lead to severe complications and, if left untreated, can cause clinical disability and even death. However, advancements in treatment have significantly improved patient outcomes, helping many individuals live longer and more active lives.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a specific and more severe form of pulmonary hypertension caused by the narrowing of the small arteries in the lungs. PAH may result from:

• Genetic and congenital factors – Some individuals are born with an increased risk.
• Environmental factors
• Blood clots (chronic pulmonary embolism) – Blockages in the pulmonary arteries can lead to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).
• Certain medications and toxins – Some diet pills and medications have been linked to PAH.
• Unknown causes (Idiopathic PAH) – In some cases, the cause remains unknown.

Regardless of the underlying cause, early intervention and expert care are key to managing the disease effectively.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension can progress silently, with mild or no symptoms in its early stages. Over time, patients may develop:

• Shortness of breath – Initially with exertion, later even at rest
• Fatigue and weakness – Reduced oxygen flow leads to extreme tiredness
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting – A sign of severe disease and poor oxygen circulation
• Chest pain or pressure – Can resemble angina (heart-related chest pain)
• Swelling in the legs and abdomen (edema) – Due to fluid buildup from heart strain
• Bluish lips or skin – Caused by low oxygen levels in the blood

If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Diagnosing Pulmonary Hypertension

Since pulmonary hypertension can mimic other heart and lung conditions, accurate diagnosis requires specialized testing. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to determine the severity and cause of the disease, including:

• Right heart catheterization – A minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter to directly measure the pressures inside the blood vessels of the lung and blood flow in the right side of the heart
• Echocardiogram – A specialized, non-invasive ultrasound that assesses heart function
• CT scan of the chest – Detects blood clots, lung disease, or structural abnormalities
• Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) – Evaluates lung function and oxygen levels
• Six-minute walk test – Measures exercise tolerance and disease progression
• Laboratory tests and genetic screening – Helps identify underlying causes

Accurate diagnosis allows us to develop personalized treatment plans that best fit each patient’s condition.

Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment

While pulmonary hypertension has no cure, significant advancements in therapy have transformed it from a life-threatening condition to a manageable disease. At Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, we develop patient-specific treatment plans that may include:

• Medications to lower pulmonary artery pressure – Oral, inhaled, and intravenous (IV) medications help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
• Diuretics – Reduce fluid buildup and ease strain on the heart
• Oxygen therapy – Helps combat chronic hypoxia and improves symptoms
• Supervised exercise and pulmonary rehabilitation – Strengthens the heart and lungs
• Lifestyle modifications – Salt and fluid restrictions can help reduce fluid retention.
• Lung transplantation – In severe cases, a lung transplant may be an option.

Since treatment varies based on the type and severity of pulmonary hypertension, specialized care from an experienced team is crucial.

Pulmonary Hypertension Comprehensive Care Center

Management of a complicated disease such as pulmonary hypertension requires a multi-disciplinary team of specialists who are specifically trained in all available treatment modalities. At Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, we established a Pulmonary Hypertension Association-Accredited Comprehensive Care Center of Excellence—the largest pulmonary hypertension center in Arizona. Our multidisciplinary team includes:

• Specialty-trained pulmonologists in collaboration with expert cardiologists
• Pulmonary hypertension nurse coordinators
• Clinical research specialists

At the Center, we provide comprehensive, cutting-edge care for pulmonary hypertension patients, ensuring the highest level of expertise and support.

Clinical Research and Trials

At Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, we are committed to advancing pulmonary hypertension treatments through clinical research. If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, ask your doctor about current opportunities to access new and emerging therapies.

Why Choose Arizona Pulmonary Specialists?

• Pulmonary Hypertension Center of Excellence – The largest PH center in Arizona, accredited by the Pulmonary Hypertension Association
• Advanced diagnostic and treatment options – Cutting-edge tools for early detection and personalized treatment
• Multidisciplinary, patient-centered care – Collaboration between pulmonologists, cardiologists, and specialized PH coordinators
• Access to clinical trials – Opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research

Physicians Specializing in Pulmonary Hypertension

The lung and infectious disease doctors at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists are experts in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension. Our team of doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists will work with you to ensure that you understand your condition and treatment plan.