Question 1

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition characterized by abnormally high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. It is caused by narrowing, stiffening, or blockage of the pulmonary arteries, which forces the right side of the heart to work harder to pump blood through the lungs. The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) test is the most important blood test for monitoring pulmonary hypertension because it measures the stress and strain on the heart caused by this increased pressure.

Question 2

What causes pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary hypertension is caused by changes in the small arteries of the lungs that become narrowed, thickened, stiffened, or blocked. These changes restrict blood flow through the lungs, causing pressure to build up in the pulmonary arteries. The condition can result from various underlying causes including heart disease, lung disease, blood clots in the lungs, connective tissue disorders like scleroderma, certain medications, or genetic mutations. In some cases, the exact cause cannot be identified, which is called idiopathic pulmonary hypertension.

Question 3

What is the best test for pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) test is the most important blood test for pulmonary hypertension because it directly measures the stress on your heart caused by increased lung artery pressure. When the right side of your heart struggles to pump blood through narrowed pulmonary arteries, it releases BNP into your bloodstream. Elevated BNP levels indicate how hard your heart is working and help doctors monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness. While right heart catheterization remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension, BNP testing provides crucial ongoing monitoring without invasive procedures. Regular BNP monitoring helps your healthcare team adjust treatments and catch complications early.

Question 4

When should I get tested for pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience unexplained shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or exercise that you previously handled easily. Other warning signs include chest pain or pressure, fatigue that interferes with daily activities, dizziness or fainting episodes, swelling in your ankles or legs, bluish color to your lips or skin, and a racing or pounding heartbeat. If you have risk factors like a family history of pulmonary hypertension, connective tissue diseases, sleep apnea, or a history of blood clots in the lungs, regular monitoring with BNP testing is particularly important for catching problems early.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptom of pulmonary hypertension is shortness of breath that worsens with physical activity. You might also experience extreme fatigue, chest pain or pressure, rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations, and lightheadedness or fainting spells. As the condition progresses, you may notice swelling in your ankles, legs, or abdomen, bluish discoloration of your lips and skin, and reduced appetite. Many people initially dismiss these symptoms as signs of aging or being out of shape, but they progressively worsen as the heart struggles to pump blood through increasingly constricted lung arteries.

Question 6

Who is at risk for pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

People with existing heart or lung conditions face the highest risk for developing pulmonary hypertension, including those with left-sided heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or sleep apnea. You are also at increased risk if you have connective tissue diseases like scleroderma or lupus, a history of blood clots in the lungs, liver disease, HIV infection, or congenital heart defects. Certain medications including some diet drugs and stimulants can trigger the condition. Living at high altitudes, having a family history of pulmonary hypertension, and using recreational drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine also increase your risk.

Question 7

What happens if pulmonary hypertension is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated pulmonary hypertension progressively damages your heart and can lead to life-threatening complications. The right side of your heart enlarges and weakens as it struggles against the high pressure in your lung arteries, eventually leading to right-sided heart failure. This causes severe fluid buildup in your legs, abdomen, and liver. You may develop irregular heart rhythms called arrhythmias that can be dangerous. Blood clots are more likely to form in the small arteries of your lungs, and you face increased risk of bleeding in the lungs which can cause you to cough up blood. Without treatment, pulmonary hypertension significantly reduces life expectancy and quality of life.

Question 8

Can pulmonary hypertension be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose pulmonary hypertension, but they play an essential role in monitoring the condition and assessing heart strain. The BNP test measures a hormone your heart releases when under stress, with elevated levels indicating your heart is working harder due to increased lung artery pressure. While right heart catheterization remains necessary for definitive diagnosis by directly measuring pressure in your pulmonary arteries, blood tests like BNP provide valuable ongoing monitoring without invasive procedures. Your doctor may also order additional blood tests to check for underlying conditions that could cause pulmonary hypertension, such as autoimmune diseases, liver problems, or HIV infection.

Question 9

How is pulmonary hypertension treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for pulmonary hypertension focuses on improving symptoms, slowing disease progression, and reducing the workload on your heart. Your doctor may prescribe medications that dilate blood vessels in your lungs, including calcium channel blockers, endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, or prostacyclin analogs. Blood thinners help prevent clots, while diuretics reduce fluid buildup. Oxygen therapy may be necessary if your blood oxygen levels are low. In severe cases, surgical options include atrial septostomy or lung transplantation. Treating any underlying conditions contributing to pulmonary hypertension is also crucial for managing the disease effectively.

Question 10

How can I prevent pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot always prevent pulmonary hypertension, you can reduce your risk by managing underlying health conditions that contribute to it. Control high blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. If you have sleep apnea, use your CPAP machine consistently as directed. Avoid recreational drugs, particularly cocaine and methamphetamines, and discuss any prescription medications with your doctor. If you live at high altitude and experience symptoms, consider relocating to a lower elevation. Regular exercise within your limits, eating a heart-healthy diet low in sodium, and managing stress all support lung and heart health.

Question 11

What can I do at home for pulmonary hypertension?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can support your treatment by making lifestyle adjustments that reduce strain on your heart. Rest when you feel tired and pace activities throughout the day rather than overexerting yourself. Follow a low-sodium diet to prevent fluid retention, and monitor your weight daily to catch fluid buildup early. Stay current with all medications exactly as prescribed. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can help maintain cardiovascular fitness without overtaxing your heart, but always discuss exercise plans with your doctor first. Avoid high altitudes and airplane travel if possible, as lower oxygen levels can worsen symptoms. Join a support group to connect with others managing the same condition.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Pulmonary Hypertension Blood Test

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

What causes pulmonary hypertension?

What is the best test for pulmonary hypertension?

When should I get tested for pulmonary hypertension?

References

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