Had an echo done in March.

[talk2velda]

Had an echo done in March.  These items were in bold:

IVSd MM 1.35                   (Normal range .6-.9cm)
LVPWd MM 1.21               (normal range .6-,.9cm)
LA Volume Index 11.90     (normal range16-34 cc/m2)
Aortic Root MM 3.17          (normal range 2.30-2.10 cm)
AV Mean PG 5                   (normal range 2-4 mmHg)

I really don't know what these specific items mean even though with the legend I know some things reference left or right or aorta, but I don't know what the values are actually saying.

My PCP says that I have pulmonary hypertension but he doesn't really explain the specific numbers from the echo report.  I'm the type who really needs to understand the numbers not just be told something.

As a background, I am 62, female, have had asthma since 21, recent diagnosis of bronchiectasis. my BP is typically around 120 over 60 (ish), but at times has been higher like the other day at 138 over I think it was 70..   I've been having trouble with shortness of breath, fatigue, and lots (LOTS) of mucous-sometimes green but never bloody (when I'm not on prednisone).  

PCP has added a BP med at a very, very low daily dose.

Can anyone explain the numbers to me?

[ayl291]

Wait, they diagnosed you with pulmonary hypertension, without a right heart catheterization?

Pah or pvh?

This is a very serious condition and considering you have symptoms you would need proper meds.

And those are just measurement... Ex la volume index.  How much your heart is holding in it.

[talk2velda]

did not have a heart cath.  I have a followup appt late June so I'm making a list of questions for the doctor.  

[ayl291]

That's ridiculous ... They can't diagnose without rhc. Are you in the states