Pulmonary hypertension(PH)
Also known as: Pulmonale Hypertonie · Lungenhochdruck · Pulmonary arterial hypertension · PAH · Pulmonaler Hochdruck
Overview
What it is
Pulmonary hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure in the blood vessels that supply the lungs. This increased pressure forces the right side of the heart to work much harder to pump blood, which can eventually lead to heart failure and poor oxygen delivery throughout the body. It usually develops as a secondary complication of an underlying heart or lung disease.
How it presents
Owners typically notice their dog coughing, struggling to breathe, tiring quickly during exercise, or even fainting during excitement. These symptoms most commonly become apparent in middle-aged to older dogs.
Treatment
This is an incurable condition that requires lifelong management with daily medications to help open the blood vessels. Ongoing care, including regular heart ultrasounds to monitor the disease, typically costs between €2,500 and €9,000.
How it's tested
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure in the blood vessels that supply the lungs. This increased pressure forces the right side of the heart to work much harder to pump blood, which can eventually lead to heart failure and poor oxygen delivery throughout the body. It usually develops as a secondary complication of an underlying heart or lung disease.
How is Pulmonary hypertension tested?
Tests currently in our database: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.