Primary pulmonary hypertension, a rare and life-threatening disease that increases blood pressure in the lungs and damages heart valves, can be treated through a variety of methods, including lifestyle changes, medication, and lung and heart transplants. It often results from the use of diet drugs such as Fen-phen. Unfortunately, this illness is not yet curable and has a poor prognosis.
Symptoms of primary pulmonary hypertension include fatigue, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, fainting, swelling in the ankles or legs, blue discoloration of the lips, and chest pain. Fortunately, some medications, such as anticoagulants, can help control the symptoms of the disease and improve the quality of life for those who are afflicted with PPH.
Anticoagulants work in the body by preventing the coagulation of blood. The drugs can either prevent new clots from forming or an existing clot from increasing in size. Anticoagulants do not dissolve clots already in existence. By reducing blood coagulation, this type of medication lessens the strain on the heart from primary pulmonary hypertension, making it easier to pump blood through the pulmonary artery. Several studies revealed that patient survival rate is increased when treatment with anticoagulants occurs.
Two common example of anticoagulants used today include Heparin and Warfarin. Heparin is a biological substance derived from the intestines of pigs. It works by activating antithrombin III which stops thrombin from clotting blood. Warfarin, the most commonly used anticoagulant in the United States, works by inhibiting the vitamin K dependant synthesis of active forms of various calcium clotting factors. Dosage of these drugs is tricky because they frequently interact with many commonly prescribed medications. Even diets high in vitamin K will change the effects of Warfarin, making the drug less efficient. Side effects of anticoagulants such as Warfarin include hemorrhages, Warfarin necrosis, osteoporosis, and purple toe syndrome.
In addition to anti-clotting medication, other drugs can be used to ease the symptoms of PPH. Calcium channel blockers and vasodilators are sometimes used in the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension. Calcium channel blockers work by triggering the vascular smooth muscles in the lungs to open, easing pulmonary artery pressure. Vasodilators, such as Flonan and Tracleer, work by activating a reaction in the endothelium cells, which lowers pressure and strain.Primary pulmonary hypertension is a serious and complicated disease. Modern medication, such as anticoagulants, can help ease the symptoms of the illness. Unfortunately, with no available cure, medication can only help patients control the negative side effects.
