PH Insights

A Closer Look at Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease, Part 1

Guest: Ahmad Abu Homoud, MD, medical director, Pulmonary Hypertension Center,
Jersey Shore University Medical Center; and associate program director, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Shore Pulmonary Physician Associates.

 

In this episode of PH Insights, Homoud discusses the connection between pulmonary hypertension and interstitial lung disease. ILD is a group of disorders that cause scarring (fibrosis) or inflammation of lung tissue, leading to stiffened lungs and difficulty breathing. People with ILD may develop pulmonary hypertension due to a stiff left side of the heart or sleep apnea. Homoud explains the development of PH in ILD, a rare condition that affects about 30% of patients. He also discusses the diagnostic process for both conditions and available treatment options, including medications, oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. He also emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages patients to work closely with their medical team.

Filling in the Blanks: Understanding Pulmonary Hypertension, Part 2

Guests: Jenny Yang, MD, and Monica Penaranda, PHA Board of Trustees member and PH patient.

 

In this episode, we hear from Monica Penaranda, who has been living with pulmonary arterial hypertension for 27 years. Diagnosed while pregnant, Penaranda shares her diagnosis journey and discusses the importance of perseverance, proper medical care and finding joy while living with PH. Jenny Yang explains how pregnancy can often reveal undiagnosed PAH, highlighting the critical importance of early detection and specialized care. Tune in to hear Penaranda’s inspiring journey and how advancements in PAH treatment have supported her along the way.

Filling in the Blanks: Understanding Pulmonary Hypertension, Part 1

Guest: Jenny Yang, MD; assistant professor of medicine, University of California San Diego 

 

Pulmonary hypertension is a complex and underdiagnosed condition that affects the blood vessels in the lungs. Blood vessels can become stiff, damaged or narrow, causing the right side of the heart to work harder to pump blood through. In this inaugural episode of PH Insights, Jenny Yang provides a comprehensive overview of PH, its classifications and common misconceptions associated with the condition. Listen now for valuable insights into PH and new advancements in research and treatment that offer hope to people with PH.