Pulmonary heart disease

Pulmonary Heart Disease (Cor Pulmonale)

Introduction

Pulmonary Heart Disease, also known as Cor Pulmonale, is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement and failure of the right ventricle of the heart. This condition is a response to increased vascular resistance or high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).

Pathophysiology

Cor Pulmonale develops as a result of pulmonary hypertension, which puts chronic pressure on the right ventricle, leading to its enlargement and eventually failure. Common causes of pulmonary hypertension include:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Pulmonic stenosis (narrowing of the pulmonary valve).
• Chronic pulmonary embolism.
• Interstitial lung diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cor Pulmonale may include:

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
• Fatigue.
• Swelling of the legs and ankles (peripheral edema).
• Chest discomfort or pain.
• Palpitations.

Chest X-ray showing Cor Pulmonale.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cor Pulmonale involves:

• Clinical examination.
• Imaging studies like chest X-ray and echocardiogram.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart function.
• Blood tests to measure B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels.
• Pulmonary function tests.

Treatment

Treatment of Cor Pulmonale focuses on managing the underlying pulmonary condition and may include:

• Oxygen therapy.
• Diuretics to reduce fluid overload.
• Vasodilators for pulmonary hypertension.
• Bronchodilators and corticosteroids for COPD.
• Anticoagulants in cases with pulmonary embolism.

Prognosis

The prognosis of Cor Pulmonale varies depending on the severity of pulmonary hypertension and the effectiveness of managing the underlying condition.

Prevention and Management

Preventive measures include:

• Smoking cessation.
• Regular exercise.
• Timely management of lung diseases.
• Vaccination against respiratory infections.

See Also

• Cardiology
• Pulmonology
• Heart failure

External Links

• American Heart Association - Cor Pulmonale
• American Lung Association - COPD

Pulmonary heart disease Resources
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