Pulmonary Hypertension with COPD or Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) can occur in people who have chronic lung diseases, such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
The cause of PH was long thought to be due to chronically low oxygen levels, but the exact cause is not known.
Because the nature of these diseases is complex, they can be difficult to treat.
Treatment of Severe Pulmonary Hypertension with Chronic Lung Disease
Treating PH associated with chronic lung disease is challenging. Patients with lung disease do not necessarily respond the same way as patients without lung disease do.
It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of PH therapies in the setting of underlying lung disease.
Based on clinical experience and lack of evidence for great benefits in people with mild PH, the team at the UPMC Comprehensive Pulmonary Hypertension Program focuses on treating patients with severe PH.
People with severe PH are at highest risk of death and are most likely to be helped.
Given the complex nature of this diagnosis, we often recommend that patients:
In our program, we work closely with the Emphysema Clinical Research Center and Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, through which research studies often are available.
We are happy to evaluate patients for PH associated with chronic lung disease to explore available clinical trials and help form patient-specific treatment plans.
Our expertise in PH, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung transplantation allows our patients to explore all available treatment options for this complicated disease.
Make an Appointment Today
To schedule an appointment at the UPMC Comprehensive Pulmonary Hypertension Program, contact us at:
Learn More About COPD and Other Breathing Disorders