COR PULMONALE

(Pulmonary Hypertension)

 Basic information

description

Cor pulmonale is a type of heart disease. It develops when the right side of the heart fails to function properly. This means the pumping power of the heart is weaker than normal. The condition is due to high blood pressure in the lungs. Cor pulmonale is usually chronic (ongoing), but may be acute (short term). It is more common in adults over 50, and occurs in men more than women.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Early symptoms may be vague and mild.
• Shortness of breath with physical activity.
• Feeling weak and tired.
• Chest pain.
• Fainting or near fainting.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Cough or wheezing.
• Swelling of the ankles, feet.
• Swelling of the stomach (ascites).
• Bluish color of the skin.
• Neck veins swollen (distended).

causes

Lung disease or dysfunction leads to pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs). This slows or blocks blood flow in the lungs. This in turn causes an extra load on the right side of the heart as it tries to pump enough blood through the lungs. The heart muscle becomes overdeveloped (enlarged) and the load on the heart becomes too great, leading to heart failure.

risk increases with

• Chronic lung disease, such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, silicosis, cystic fibrosis, and others.
• Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
• Extensive loss of lung tissue due to surgery or injury.
• Severe curvature of the spine.
• Severe obesity and sleep apnea.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Avoid risk factors for lung disease, such as smoking .
• Obtain medical care for any heart or lung disorder .

expected outcomes

The outcome will depend on the underlying lung disorder. Symptoms can often be relieved or controlled with treatment.

possible complications

Serious, sometimes fatal, heart failure.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include blood studies, x-ray, lung scan, lung function tests, and echocardiogram (heart study).
• Treatment is directed at the illness that is causing cor pulmonale. Treatment steps usually include drug therapy, supplemental oxygen, and surgery (if needed). Hospital care may be required, especially if a blood clot is diagnosed.
• Supplemental oxygen is usually needed on a continuous basis. An oxygen therapist can arrange for the type of oxygen that allows you to be up and about.
• Surgery may be needed to correct heart defects.
• Lung transplant or heart-lung transplant may be recommended in some cases.
• Stop smoking. Find a way to quit that works for you.

medications

Drugs may be prescribed to improve heart function, to slow and regulate the heart rate, get rid of extra fluid, lower blood pressure, thin the blood, relax blood vessels, and to treat any underlying disorder.

activity

Be as active as your condition allows, but don't overexert. Rest between activities.

diet

You may be advised to follow a low-salt and low fat diet and limit your fluid intake.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of cor pulmonale.
• The following occur during treatment:
  • Temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
  • Weight gain of 3 to 4 pounds in 1 or 2 days.
  • Increased shortness of breath.
  • Increased swelling of the ankles or stomach.
  • Cough with mucus that is discolored or bloody.

Special Notes: