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Pulmonary hypertension is a fairly rare disease. Although not currently curable, pulmonary hypertension treatment exists that can relieve many of your symptoms and make you more comfortable.

PH is a rare disease of the lung and is not curable at this point in time. It occurs when the blood vessels carrying blood from the heart to the lungs becomes constricted. This causes a jump in blood pressure and strains the heart ventricle. The strain and swelling makes the heart unable to pump as much blood as needed. Heart failure can develop as a result.

As with most acute or chronic illnesses, the first medical therapy is medication in the form of pills. You may need to take anticoagulants to prevent blood clots and let the blood flow more freely. Excess fluid in the body’s tissue can cause swelling and make breathing more difficult. Diuretics are used to reduce that extra water. Vasodilators cause lowered blood pressure levels so your heart is not as overworked.

Surgery is really the only other option to treat the illness. If your condition is due to a blockage in a pulmonary artery, it can be surgically removed to improve your state of health. This procedure is known as a pulmonary thromboendarterectomy and is a critical operation. Combined heart and lung failure requires special treatment. It is rare to see but is crucial to monitor in certain cases.

A lung transplant performed by a surgeon is the only cure known today for pulmonary hypertension This is reserved for the most severe cases that have resisted all other medical efforts. There is a waiting list for lungs just like kidneys, and donors are fairly limited. If a donor lung is found and the transplant is successful, your heart will shrink back to its original size. Your symptoms should go away completely. Although it is a risky operation, it can save your life.

There are also things you can do at home to alleviate your ailments. Relax and try to keep stress at bay so your blood pressure won’t rise. If you are smoking, quit- it will only kill you faster. Be on a good diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Limit your salt intake to prevent water retention and swelling. Rest well so you are not always tired.

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious disorder that can defeat you emotionally as well. Don’t let this disorder keep you from living your life since pulmonary hypertension treatment can be very effective. Talk with your doctor and work out the course of treatment that fits your situation. The sooner you can begin treatment, the better your chances of improving your quality of life.