What are the main causes of pulmonary hypertension due to COPD?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, COPD refers to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The development of pulmonary hypertension in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be related to long-term hypoxia of lung tissue, increased blood viscosity and blood volume, chronic inflammation and fibrosis, abnormal distribution of pulmonary blood flow, and increased pulmonary vascular resistance. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately.
COPD usually refers to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The development of pulmonary hypertension in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be related to long-term hypoxia of lung tissue, increased blood viscosity and blood volume, chronic inflammation and fibrosis, abnormal distribution of pulmonary blood flow, and increased pulmonary vascular resistance. If discomfort occurs, immediate medical attention is recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Long-term hypoxia of lung tissue
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can cause airway narrowing and impaired ventilation, reducing alveolar gas exchange efficiency and leading to prolonged hypoxia in lung tissue. Hypoxia induces spastic constriction of the pulmonary microarteries, thereby increasing pulmonary arterial pressure. This can be improved through appropriate oxygen supplementation.
2. Increased blood viscosity and increased blood volume
Due to chronic hypoxia, the body produces more secondary red blood cells to enhance oxygen-carrying capacity. However, this increases blood viscosity and places additional strain on the pulmonary circulation, contributing to pulmonary hypertension. Adequate hydration is recommended to help reduce blood viscosity.
3. Chronic inflammation and fibrosis
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have persistent inflammatory responses in the lungs, causing damage to the airway epithelium and resulting in remodeling and narrowing of the pulmonary arterioles, which increases pulmonary arterial pressure. Symptoms commonly include dyspnea, cough, and sputum production. Treatment typically involves medications such as budesonide inhalation aerosol, beclomethasone dipropionate inhalation aerosol, or fluticasone propionate suspension for nebulization, as prescribed by a physician.
4. Abnormal pulmonary blood flow distribution
In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary blood flow distribution becomes abnormal, with blood preferentially flowing to less affected areas. This places excessive hemodynamic burden on healthy lung tissue, potentially triggering pulmonary hypertension. Symptoms often include chest tightness and palpitations. Medications such as nifedipine controlled-release tablets, rivaroxaban tablets, or bosentan tablets may be used under medical guidance.
5. Increased pulmonary vascular resistance
Increased pulmonary vascular resistance primarily results from constriction and remodeling of the small pulmonary arteries. Damage to pulmonary vascular endothelial function leads to elevated resistance, causing pulmonary hypertension. Additional symptoms may include significantly reduced exercise tolerance and limitations in daily activities. Treatment may involve medications such as beraprost sodium tablets, ambrisentan tablets, or amlodipine besylate tablets, as directed by a physician.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a low-salt, low-fat, and light diet, avoiding high-fat foods. It is beneficial to consume meat, eggs, dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Regular moderate exercise is also recommended to support recovery.
