Early Detection of Pulmonary Hypertension

To catch PH early, talk to your patients about any changes they experience^2,12

Questions to consider asking your patients:

What has changed since your last appointment?

Are you able to walk as far as you used to without resting?

What does a typical day look like for you? How is your routine different since our last appointment?

Are you not doing some things you used to?

For example:

– Do you walk your dog? How far are you able to walk together? Has that become a more difficult activity?

– Can you walk to a store from the parking lot? Or do you need to be dropped off at the front?

PH is often not diagnosed until significant right heart dysfunction has developed^2-4

Early PH symptoms overlap with symptoms of ILD progression^2-4:

Increased shortness of breath

Fatigue

Reduced ability to be active

Later, more distinct PH signs indicate significant right heart dysfunction^4,5:

Jugular vein distention

Peripheral edema

Early discussions with your patients about PH may help facilitate earlier detection.^2,12 Start the conversation today.

ILD=interstitial lung disease; PH=pulmonary hypertension.