Effect of systemic hypertension S/E on PH

[jude469]

Sixty-six y/o female with dxed moderate (dobutamine stress echo) PH secondary to COPD. No pressure numbers were provided in the cardiologist report. My COPD is severe  FEV1 45% but DLCO only 35% and I am  fully O2 dependent. I can walk a mile but have to rest  as I still desaturate on 6L O2. Recently started Symbicort inhaler and systemic blood pressure went up 180/108 and  was wondering if the med would  be likely to raise pulmonary pressure as well. Doctor added HCT to already prescribed Diovan which seems to be working but am on low dose of Symbicort and may have to increase it.  
Thanks, judi

[Jonathan D. Rich, MD]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

I'm not sure if the symbicort will directly raise your PA pressures.  However, anything that causes high blood pressure will have the potential to raise PA pressures a bit (this is because the elevated pressures on the left side can be transmitted back to the lungs).  Bottom line, I agree with your doc to treat your high blood pressure.  It doesnt necessarily need to be treated to a LOW number but 180 is certainly way too high----would aim to get in under 140 systolic.

Best,

Dr. Rich

[jude469]

Thank you.