Pulmonary Hypertension (PH): Tests
Pulmonary hypertension, or PH, is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. These arteries carry blood from your heart to your lungs to pick up oxygen.
Part of: Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)
Your doctor will diagnose pulmonary hypertension (PH) based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and the results from tests and procedures.
PH can develop slowly. In fact, you may have it for years and not know it. This is because the condition has no early signs or symptoms.
When symptoms do occur, they’re often like those of other heart and lung conditions, such as asthma. This makes PH hard to diagnose.
Medical and Family Histories
Your doctor may ask about your signs and symptoms and how and when they began. He or she also may ask whether you have other medical conditions that can cause PH.
Your doctor will want to know whether you have any family members who have or have had PH. People who have a family history of PH are at higher risk for the condition.
Physical Exam
During the physical exam, your doctor will listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope. He or she… Read more about Pulmonary Hypertension (PH): Tests