Pulmonary Vascular Disease

Pulmonary vascular disease can prevent your body from delivering the oxygen-rich blood your organs need to function properly. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, Frederick Tackey, MD, at the Pulmonology & Sleep Center in Boynton Beach and Delray Beach, Florida, provides accurate diagnoses and effective treatment for pulmonary vascular disease. Call one of the offices or book an appointment online today.

What is pulmonary vascular disease?

Pulmonary vascular disease (PVD) is an umbrella term that refers to several conditions that affect the flow of blood between your heart and lungs. PVD causes many concerning symptoms like chest pain, rapid heart rate, and shortness of breath. 

The different types of pulmonary vascular disease include:

Pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension refers to increased blood pressure in your pulmonary arteries, the vessels that carry blood from your heart to your lungs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep disorders, and autoimmune disorders can all cause pulmonary hypertension. 

Hypertension can also affect your pulmonary veins – the blood vessels that carry blood from your lungs to your heart. Congestive heart failure typically causes hypertension of the pulmonary veins.

Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that makes its way into the heart and is then pumped into the lungs. Certain factors like genetics, heart disease, and blood disorders can increase your risk for blood clots and pulmonary embolisms. 

Chronic thromboembolic disease

Chronic thromboembolic disease is a rare condition that causes blood clots to develop in the small blood vessels in your lungs. The blood clots can block the flow of blood between your heart and lungs and lead to hypertension. 

How is pulmonary vascular disease treated?

Treatment for your pulmonary vascular disease depends on the underlying cause. To accurately diagnose your condition, your doctor performs an in-depth evaluation, including a physical exam, imaging tests, and a discussion of your medical history. 

Depending on your condition, your treatment may include:

• Oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation
• Medication

With the right treatment from the Pulmonology & Sleep Center, you can control your symptoms and improve the function of your heart and lungs. In severe cases, you may require surgery to treat PVD. 

What is interstitial lung disease?

The symptoms of PVD can be mistaken for interstitial lung disease. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is another umbrella term that refers to several different conditions that cause scarring of the lungs. 

ILD can be caused by long-term exposure to chemicals and pollutants or certain medical treatments. If you experience symptoms, the Pulmonology & Sleep Center can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. 

To discuss your pulmonary vascular disease symptoms, call the Pulmonology & Sleep Center, or book your appointment online today.