Heart Checkup

Why Is a Regular Checkup with a Cardiologist Essential for Your Heart Health?

If you have heart disease or a family history, you should see a cardiologist at some time. You might not appreciate that there are many sorts of coronary heart experts, each with additional training in a focused area—and it’s easy to become concerned about the type of heart expert you might need from a heart specialist hospital. We recognize you are seeking the best cardiologist for valve treatment in Delhi.

During a heart checkup, a doctor will look for indicators of heart disease and assess your risk of getting heart disease in the future. Risk factors include high blood pressure and cholesterol, high blood sugar, being overweight or obese, and certain lifestyle choices such as tobacco and alcohol consumption.

Given the rising number of young people dying from heart disease, some heart health foundations urged screening to begin as early as 20. We all know that the coronavirus pandemic is still a reality that cannot be ignored, but a cardiac problem is also unavoidable. Plan ahead of time and talk with a cardiologist heart doctor to determine which tests are appropriate for you and how frequently you should undergo them. 

If any of these symptoms arise, seek emergency medical assistance.

  • Feelings of discomfort or pain in the chest
  • A feeling of fluttering in the chest
  • A rapid or slowing heartbeat
  • Prolonged shortness of breath
  • Experiencing dizziness
  • Excessive fatigue
  • Foot or abdominal swelling

These are the primary symptoms of a heart problem that demands immediate attention. Adults should get regular heart health screenings as part of their preventive healthcare. Your heart specialist doctor will most likely advise you to undergo a series of screening tests beginning around 20 and potentially earlier in some cases. Your doctor may recommend additional testing if the screening tests indicate indications of heart disease or a high risk of developing heart disease.

Different Heart Tests

If your doctor suspects you have heart disease, he or she may order some of the following tests to assist in diagnosing the status of your heart:

• Electrocardiography (also known as ECG or EKG). Tiny adhesive electrodes are attached to your chest and connected to an ECG machine, which monitors the electrical activity of your heart and provides information about its rate and rhythm.

• A cardiac stress test while exercising. Electrodes are placed on your chest and are linked to an ECG machine. Then you’ll be asked to walk, run, or ride a stationary cycle on a treadmill while healthcare professionals assess your heart’s response to the physical stress. 

Other tests include:

  • Echocardiography.
  • Nuclear stress test.
  • Cardiac CT scan for calcium scoring.
  • Coronary CT angiography (CTA).
  • Coronary catheter angiography. 

For personalized guidance and expert insights, it is advisable to consult Dr. Naveen Bhamri, the best cardiologist doctor in India, HOD, and Senior Director of Interventional Cardiology at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi. With a distinguished career as a renowned interventional cardiologist , Dr. Naveen Bhamri brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the realm of heart health. 

Cardiology Service

6 Signs You Should See a Heart Specialist Doctor

When it comes to heart health, it is critical to be proactive. In other words, knowing the signs and symptoms requires a doctor visit. We’ve all experienced chest pain and shortness of breath. Other, more subtle symptoms point to the need for a cardiologist. There are a few signs that you should consult an interventional cardiologist. If you experience any of these symptoms or worry about your cardiovascular health, schedule an appointment with a local cardiologist immediately. It will aid you in swiftly locating and recovering from suitable treatment. 

Heart disorders are serious, and you should get medical attention as soon as you notice any symptoms.

Many people are not aware of the warning signals of cardiovascular disease. However, people should be aware of them to determine whether they have a heart disease indication. Knowing when to consult an interventional cardiologist can be highly beneficial to patients.

Signs You Need to Consult an Interventional Cardiologist

Here are six signs that you should see an interventional cardiologist.

  1. Shortness of breath

If you find yourself gasping for air after going for a trip around the block or climbing a flight of stairs, this could be a sign of a decreased blood supply to your heart. This reduced blood flow is often caused by coronary artery disease, which narrows or blocks your arteries. The best cardiologist for Valve treatment in Delhi can detect and treat coronary artery disease.

  1. Chest Pain or Discomfort

Everyone knows that chest pain is never a good thing. Consult a cardiologist heart doctor if you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, especially if it is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or dizziness. The best cardiologist doctor in India will be able to determine if the cause is benign, such as acid reflux, or hazardous, such as a heart attack.

  1. Your resting heart rate is higher than usual.

A healthy adult’s resting heart rate should be between 60 and 100 beats per minute. If it frequently surpasses 100 beats per minute, it may indicate a heart problem. Your cardiologist heart doctor will be able to discover the cause of your elevated heart rate and devise an effective treatment plan.

  1. High Blood Pressure

If left untreated, high blood pressure can cause long-term damage to your arteries, heart, and kidneys. If you have high blood pressure and are having difficulty controlling it with medication and lifestyle changes, an interventional cardiologist may be able to help.

  1. Diabetes

Diabetes increases your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. If you have diabetes, you should see an interventional cardiologist frequently so your cardiovascular health can be assessed and treated as soon as feasible.

  1. Family history of Cardiovascular Disease

If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, you may be more prone to develop it yourself, even if you don’t have any symptoms right now. That is why, even if you are feeling fine, you should consult the best cardiologist doctor in India.

Conclusion

Physical activity is essential for heart health. That is, knowing the symptoms and indicators needs a doctor’s visit. These are some signs that you should consult an interventional cardiologist. If you have any of these symptoms or are concerned about your cardiovascular health, please contact Dr. Naveen Bhamri. The best cardiologist for valve treatment in Delhi, Dr. Naveen Bhamri, tests thoroughly to determine the underlying condition triggering those symptoms that may concern a heart health issue. 

Care after angioplasty or bypass surgery

Care after angioplasty or bypass surgery

Following angioplasty or bypass surgery, it’s critical to take proper care and implement certain lifestyle changes to support a healthy recovery and lower the risk of future issues. Consider the following fundamental characteristics of care:

  1. Drugs: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking all prescription drugs. These may include blood pressure and cholesterol drugs, as well as blood thinners to prevent clot formation.
  2. Attend all follow-up appointments with your cardiologist to monitor your progress, discuss any concerns, and make any required changes to your treatment plan.
  3. Physical exercise: Gradually increase your degree of physical activity as directed by your healthcare provider. To improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness, engage in regular exercise such as walking or supervised cardiac rehabilitation programmes.
  4. Healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. Consider seeking personalized nutritional guidance from a trained nutritionist.
  5. Quit smoking and prevent being exposed to secondhand smoke. Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease and can impede your recovery.
  6. Weight management entails maintaining or striving for a healthy weight through a mix of regular exercise and a well-balanced diet. Excess weight places extra strain on your heart.
  7. Stress management: Find effective stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, yoga, or participating in hobbies to reduce stress levels, which can improve your heart health.
  8. Check-ups on a regular basis: Maintain vigilance in monitoring your general health. Any odd symptoms or concerns should be reported to your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
  9. Support: Look for emotional assistance from family, friends, or support groups. Connecting with individuals who have undergone comparable operations to share experiences and acquire insights might be valuable.

Remember to consult your healthcare practitioner for precise advice depending on your personal situation. They can give you personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and medical history.

LONG SITTING AND HEART PROBLEMS

Long sitting and heart problems

Prolonged sitting can cause heart difficulties and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Sedentary behavior for long periods of time might have a negative impact on your heart health and overall well-being. Here are a few ways that prolonged sitting might harm your heart:

  1. Reduced Physical Activity: Sitting for extended periods of time frequently results in decreased physical activity levels. Regular exercise is essential for keeping your heart healthy. Sitting for long periods without moving can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
  2.  Blood Circulation: Sitting for extended periods of time might impair blood circulation in your body. Because your muscles are not actively engaged while you sit, blood flow is slower. Because of the decreased circulation, the risk of blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases. A heart attack can occur if a blood clot dislodges and goes to the heart.
  3. Sedentary behaviour: Sedentary behaviour has been related to higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease. Sitting for long periods of time can lead to weight gain, obesity, and metabolic irregularities, all of which can have a bad impact on heart health.
  4. Impaired Glucose Regulation: Extended sitting can affect the body’s capacity to appropriately manage blood sugar levels. This can raise the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

It is critical to incorporate frequent physical activity and breaks from extended sitting into your daily routine to counteract the detrimental effects of sitting on heart health. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Take Regular Breaks: If feasible, stand up, stretch, and move about every 30 minutes. Even brief breaks can increase blood circulation and mitigate the detrimental effects of extended sitting.
  2. Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Include activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any other type of exercise that raises your heart rate.
  3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: To maintain a healthy weight, engage in regular exercise and eat a well-balanced diet. Excess weight puts strain on the heart and raises the risk of heart disease.
  4. Create an Active Workspace: Think about using a standing desk or an adjustable workstation that allows you to switch between sitting and standing positions during the day. This can help to decrease sedentary behaviour and promote more mobility.
  5. Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to encourage regular movement, as you’ll need to stop for toilet breaks.

Remember to seek personalized advice and suggestions from your healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing cardiac issues or concerns about your heart health.

swelling in lower limbs and how to evaluate

Swelling in lower limbs how to evaluate

Lower limb swelling can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from minor concerns to more significant medical conditions. If you have chronic or worrying swelling, It is  strongly advised that you to see a doctor for an exact evaluation and diagnosis.

That being said, the following processes may be involved in evaluating swelling in the lower limbs:

    • Medical History: Your healthcare professional will first ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or illnesses. Providing information regarding the swelling’s development, length, and characteristics will aid in establishing the underlying reason.
    • Physical Exam: Your lower limbs will be examined to determine the level of edoema, the existence of any skin abnormalities (such as redness or warmth), and any other associated symptoms. Your doctor may also look for evidence of circulatory issues or abnormal fluid retention.
    • Diagnostic testing: Based on the first evaluation, your healthcare provider may request additional diagnostic testing to determine the reason of the swelling. These could include:
    • Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to assess kidney function, liver function, blood cell counts, and inflammatory indicators.
    • Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that employs sound waves to evaluate blood flow and detect any blockages or irregularities in the blood vessels.
    • X-rays: X-rays may be ordered to look for fractures or abnormalities in the bones and joints.
    • CT scan or MRI: These imaging procedures provide more comprehensive views of internal leg tissues such as muscles, tendons, and blood arteries.
    • Echocardiography: If cardiac abnormalities are suspected, an echocardiography may be performed to evaluate the structure and function of the heart.
    • Lymphoscintigraphy: A small amount of radioactive material is injected into the foot to trace the flow of lymphatic fluid. It aids in the evaluation of lymphatic system function.
    • Referral to a Specialist: Based on the first evaluation and test results, your healthcare provider may send you to a specialist, such as a cardiologist, vascular specialist, rheumatologist, or orthopaedic expert, to evaluate the underlying cause of the swelling.

Remember to seek the advice of a healthcare expert for an accurate evaluation and diagnosis. They will be able to examine your individual circumstances and advise you on the best course of action.

Role of coronary calcium score in heart health evaluation

Role of coronary calcium score in heart health evaluation

The coronary calcium score is a diagnostic measure used to determine the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, namely coronary artery disease (CAD). It measures the quantity of calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which can indicate the presence of atherosclerosis or plaque buildup.

The following is the role of coronary calcium score in assessing heart health:

  1. Risk assessment for coronary artery disease: The coronary calcium score assists in determining the risk of getting CAD. Calcium deposits in the coronary arteries are a sign of atherosclerosis, which is characterised by a progressive constriction and hardening of the arteries caused by plaque formation. The greater the calcium score, the more likely you are to have serious coronary artery disease.
  2. Identifying high-risk individuals: The calcium score goes beyond standard risk variables including age, gender, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. It can help identify those who are at a higher risk of developing CAD even if their traditional risk factors are not significantly raised. This enables more tailored preventive and intervention approaches.
  3. Treatment strategy refinement: The coronary calcium score can help guide treatment decisions. For example, if a person has a high calcium score, it may trigger more active risk factor management, lifestyle changes, and medication use to lower the risk of future cardiac events. In contrast, a low or zero calcium score may suggest a decreased risk and impact treatment intensity selections.
  4. Monitoring illness progression: The calcium score can be used to track the progression of a disease over time. Repeated scans can detect changes in calcium deposition and plaque burden, revealing the effectiveness of therapies and guiding treatment strategy revisions.
  5. Motivating lifestyle changes: A high calcium score can serve as a wake-up call for people to live healthier lives. It can provide visible evidence of the prevalence and depth of atherosclerosis, which may encourage people to make good changes like stopping smoking, improving their diet, increasing physical activity, and managing other risk factors.

It is crucial to highlight that the coronary calcium score is just one of many tools used by healthcare practitioners to assess heart health. It should be interpreted alongside clinical evaluation, additional diagnostic testing, and individual risk factors. A healthcare provider should be consulted before deciding to undergo a coronary calcium scoring test.

Heart palpitations

Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations are feelings or awareness of one’s own heartbeat. They are characterized by fluttering, pounding, racing, or irregular heartbeats. When you have heart palpitations, you may feel as if your heart is beating too quickly, too forcefully, or as if it is missing beats.

Palpitations are common throughout the chest, throat, and neck. Other symptoms may accompany them, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or sweating. Palpitations can be intermittent and transient, or they can linger for an extended amount of time.

While heart palpitations can be frightening, they are usually harmless and do not warrant concern. Many people suffer palpitations on occasion, often during periods of stress, anxiety, or physical effort. In such circumstances, the palpitations normally go away on their own and do not necessitate medical attention.

However, heart palpitations might be a sign of an underlying medical disease that requires treatment in some cases. Palpitations can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  1. Arrhythmias: Palpitations can be caused by irregular cardiac rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).
  2. Heart issues, such as heart valve difficulties, coronary artery disease, or cardiac muscle disorders, can all lead to palpitations.
  3. Stimulants such as coffee, nicotine, or some medications, as well as alcohol or drug usage, can cause palpitations in some people.
  4. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues can all impact heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
  5. Anxiety and stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can cause the release of stress hormones, which can cause changes in heart rate and rhythm.

It is critical to get medical assistance if you have concerns about your heart palpitations or if they are accompanied by serious symptoms. Based on your specific situation, a healthcare professional can examine your symptoms, perform required tests, and provide suitable guidance or treatment.

how to manage high cholesterol

How to manage high cholesterol?

Alterations to one’s lifestyle, as well as, in some instances, taking medicine as prescribed by a medical practitioner, are necessary components in the management of high cholesterol. The following are some techniques that can be used to assist manage high cholesterol levels:

  • Eat a diet that is good for your heart by concentrating on eating foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol found in food. Increasing your consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish and chicken), and healthy fats (like olive oil and avocados) is a great way to improve your health. Reduce the amount of processed foods, fried foods, red meat, and full-fat dairy items that you consume.
  • Increase the amount of fiber in your diet: Consuming foods that are high in soluble fiber will help reduce blood cholesterol levels. Eat foods that contain soluble fiber, such as oats, barley, legumes (beans and lentils), fruits (apples, citrus fruits), and vegetables (brussels sprouts, carrots), as part of a healthy diet.
  • Participate in regular exercise: Perform aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes per week at a moderate intensity or for 75 minutes per week at a strong intensity, and engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice per week. Participating in regular physical activity is associated with improvements in both HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) levels.
  • A healthy weight should be maintained; shedding excess weight, on the other hand, can assist in bringing cholesterol levels down. Aim to maintain a body mass index (BMI) that falls somewhere in the healthy range, which is between 18.5-24.9. For specific advice tailored to your needs, speak with a qualified medical practitioner or a licensed dietician.
  • Reduce your use of alcohol because drinking too much can cause a rise in cholesterol levels and has detrimental effects on your health in general. If you do decide to drink alcohol, do it in moderation, which is defined as no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.
  • Put out that cigarette! Smoking causes damage to blood arteries, lowers HDL cholesterol, and raises LDL cholesterol. Quit smoking! Giving up smoking is the single most important thing you can do to control your cholesterol levels and improve your cardiovascular health overall.
  • Medication: Changing one’s lifestyle alone might not be enough to bring under control excessive cholesterol in all circumstances. To assist in lowering levels of LDL cholesterol, a qualified medical expert may recommend that you take medication, such as statins. It is essential to take your medications exactly as directed and maintain regular contact with your primary care physician.
  • Checkups at regular intervals: It is important to monitor your cholesterol levels as well as your general cardiovascular health by visiting your healthcare practitioner at frequent intervals. They are in a position to offer direction, evaluate your progression, and change your treatment plan as required.
  1. Eat a diet that is good for your heart by concentrating on eating foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol found in food. Increasing your consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish and chicken), and healthy fats (like olive oil and avocados) is a great way to improve your health. Reduce the amount of processed foods, fried foods, red meat, and full-fat dairy items that you consume.
  • Increase the amount of fiber in your diet: Consuming foods that are high in soluble fiber will help reduce blood cholesterol levels. Eat foods that contain soluble fiber, such as oats, barley, legumes (beans and lentils), fruits (apples, citrus fruits), and vegetables (brussels sprouts, carrots), as part of a healthy diet.
  • Participate in regular exercise: Perform aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes per week at a moderate intensity or for 75 minutes per week at a strong intensity, and engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice per week. Participating in regular physical activity is associated with improvements in both HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) levels.
  • A healthy weight should be maintained; shedding excess weight, on the other hand, can assist in bringing cholesterol levels down. Aim to maintain a body mass index (BMI) that falls somewhere in the healthy range, which is between 18.5-24.9. For specific advice tailored to your needs, speak with a qualified medical practitioner or a licensed dietician.
  • Reduce your use of alcohol because drinking too much can cause a rise in cholesterol levels and has detrimental effects on your health in general. If you do decide to drink alcohol, do it in moderation, which is defined as no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.
  • Put out that cigarette! Smoking causes damage to blood arteries, lowers HDL cholesterol, and raises LDL cholesterol. Quit smoking! Giving up smoking is the single most important thing you can do to control your cholesterol levels and improve your cardiovascular health overall.
  • Medication: Changing one’s lifestyle alone might not be enough to bring under control excessive cholesterol in all circumstances. To assist in lowering levels of LDL cholesterol, a qualified medical expert may recommend that you take medication, such as statins. It is essential to take your medications exactly as directed and maintain regular contact with your primary care physician.
  • Checkups at regular intervals: It is important to monitor your cholesterol levels as well as your general cardiovascular health by visiting your healthcare practitioner at frequent intervals. They are in a position to offer direction, evaluate your progression, and change your treatment plan as required.

Keep in mind that treating high cholesterol requires a commitment over the long run. In order to properly manage your cholesterol levels and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, it is vital to make adjustments to your lifestyle that are both durable and adhere to the treatment plan that has been prescribed for you. Always seek the advice and direction of a qualified healthcare expert.

CABG

What is CABG?

The abbreviation for “Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting” is “CABG.” It is a surgical treatment that is used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), which is a condition in which the blood arteries that narrow or get clogged are those that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. The coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG, procedure is also sometimes referred to as bypass surgery or heart bypass surgery.

During a CABG procedure, a surgeon will use grafts in order to generate new blood vessels that will lead to the heart. Grafts are blood vessels that have been harvested from another region of the body, most commonly the leg or the chest wall. The blocked or narrowed segment of the coronary artery is circumvented by the surgeon by attaching one end of the graft to a healthy artery or vein beyond the section of the coronary artery that is blocked or narrowed and attaching the other end of the graft to a spot on the coronary artery that is below the obstruction.

The coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedure improves blood supply to the heart muscle by making new channels for the blood to flow through. This alleviates symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and lowers the risk of having a heart attack. Additionally, it can improve the patient’s overall cardiac function and perhaps lengthen their life span.

The coronary artery bypass graft, often known as CABG, is a significant surgical procedure that is normally carried out under general anesthesia. It necessitates an overnight stay in the hospital as well as a period of healing time. individuals who have severe coronary artery disease and extensive blockages in many coronary arteries, as well as individuals who have not reacted well to previous treatments such as medication or angioplasty, are typically the ones who are candidates for this treatment. After the patient has been examined in great detail by a cardiologist or a cardiac surgeon, who takes into account the patient’s overall state of health as well as the severity of their coronary artery disease, the decision to proceed with CABG surgery is taken.

Pulmonary Hypertension

PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

In neonates, babies, children, teenagers, and young adults, pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex syndrome that can be accompanied by a number of cardiac, pulmonary, and systemic diseases that increase morbidity and mortality. Inflammation, pulmonary vascular remodelling, and angioobliteration are features of the underlying pulmonary hypertensive vascular disease (PHVD), which causes elevated pulmonary arterial pressure and resistance, right ventricular dysfunction, left ventricular compression, and ultimately heart failure. Recent developments in PH-targeted medicines and interventional surgical techniques have improved survival and quality of life in PH/PHVD patients.

A potentially fatal condition called pulmonary vascular obstructive disease is brought on by severe, persistent pulmonary hypertension. Recent discoveries in genetics and cell biology, however, give new insights into the pathophysiology of this illness, and novel treatments promise to increase survival and improve quality of life. It is essential to take a more proactive and aggressive approach to the management of pulmonary hypertension in young adults because the area is developing quickly. The evidence from several experimental investigations and the sustained clinical and hemodynamic improvement found in many adults with primary pulmonary hypertension treated with continuous prostacyclin suggest that the disease process may be stopped and possibly even reversed. Potential is probably larger in young people in whom the

The vasculature is still changing. Although most children are referred for treatment later in the course of the disease, pulmonary hypertension is usually not detected in infancy, highlighting the need to raise awareness of the condition. Young Adult Drug-Induced PAH in PH Obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Obstructive sleep apnea is a breathing disorder during sleep.

PH with chronic thromboembolism Chronic high altitude exposure – PH Left ischemic heart disease chronic hypertension of the arteries persistent renal failure Myeloproliferative conditions Physiopathological occurrences

Hypoxia in the alveoli and respiratory acidosis Heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction or heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction is caused by RV hypertension.

PH in postcapillaries Pre- and postcapillary PH combined Children and young adults with PH The main causes of PH in adults are idiopathic, hereditary, drug-induced, and connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), whereas PH in children frequently occurs with congenital heart disease, with genetic syndromes, and as persistent PH in newborn and young infants. Interstitial lung disease, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and developmental lung disease are also frequently linked to PH in children, whereas chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep-disordered breathing, alveolar hypoxia, and carbon dioxide retention are the most common causes of PH in adults. Children rarely develop post-capillary PH from left heart disease, but adults with left ventricular diastolic insufficiency are increasingly identified with the condition. Pre-capillary PH, also known as PAH, is increasingly regarded as a systemic condition that affects the heart, lung, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, and connective tissue, among other organ systems. Treatment

Recent years have seen a remarkable evolution in the treatment of PAH, which has resulted in the approval of 5 different classes of medications for adults, including prostacyclin analogues, endothelin receptor antagonists [ERAS], soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators, and prostacyclin receptor agonists, using 4 different delivery methods (oral, inhaled, subcutaneous, and intravenous). Patients’ symptomatic status significantly improved thanks to modern medication therapy, which also resulted in a reduced rate of clinical decline. But only a small number of these medications have been formally licenced for use in children since therapy techniques for adult PAH have not been properly investigated in young patients.

To improve screening, diagnostics (including genetic testing), established treatments, and therapy tailored to treat the underlying pathological processes in the child/young adult with PH, additional clinical and translational research is required. The RV and pulmonary arteries may both be equally relevant therapeutic targets, according to mounting evidence. Reactivation of foetal gene expression, induction of an epigenetic failure programme, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, abnormal mitochondrial metabolism with ineffective adenosine triphosphate production, and decreased coronary artery perfusion with potential for myocardial and microvascular injury are all examples of RV maladaptation.

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