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Pulmonary Hypertension

How can I be sure I have PPT?

11/08/2006

Question:

Prior to going to a new dentist, I asked my doctor about my mitral valve prolapse - which a doctor many years ago said I had. My current physician confirmed I did have a mild case of it and suggested I get an echocardiogram.

The results from the echo confirmed a mild form of pulmonary hypertension. I am a 49 year old female who eats healthy and exercises regularly, including running 12+ miles per week. I am currently training for my second half-marathon and this news has left me shocked. What are my next steps? Should I seek a second opinion? How do I confirm this early diagnosis?

Answer:

You do not state why your doctor felt that you have mild pulmonary hypertension. Given your ability to maintain a rigorous exercise regimen without any symptoms, I doubt you have significant pulmonary hypertension.

However if there is still concern you repeat an echo looking at the right side of the heart in detail.

For more information:

Go to the Pulmonary Hypertension health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Namita Sood, MD, FCCP Namita Sood, MD, FCCP
Associate Professor of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University