A healthy heart is a happy heart. A nutritional diet and healthy lifestyle are essential, but sometimes these may not be enough to manage conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It often takes long to decide the most appropriate course of treatment for PAH. Here are a few treatment options that will help manage the symptoms of PAH and slow down its progression.

1. Medications
Listed below are a few medications that can help manage PAH.

• Blood vessel dilators (vasodilators)
  Vasodilators are one of the most effective treatment options for PAH. They help relax the blood vessels and broaden them to ensure proper blood flow. Epoprostenol (Flolan, Veletri) is the most commonly prescribed blood vessel dilator. This drug is given through an intravenous (IV) line that is attached to a small pump. The pack is worn by the patient on the waist or shoulder. Diarrhea, leg cramps, nausea, jaw pain, and infection at the IV site are some of the side effects of epoprostenol. Another commonly prescribed vasodilator is treprostinil (Tyvaso, Remodulin, or Orenitram), which can be taken through injections or orally. Iloprost (Ventavis) is another vasodilator that can be given through a nebulizer.
• Guanylate cyclase (GSC) stimulators
  Guanylate cyclase helps by increasing nitric oxide in the body, which relaxes the pulmonary arteries and lowers pressure. You may feel dizziness, nausea, and giddiness as side effects. Riociguat (Adempas) is a GSC that is commonly used to treat PAH.
• Calcium channel blockers
  Amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem), and nifedipine (Adalat) are a few calcium channel blockers that relax the muscles of the blood vessels. However, it does not work for patients with severe symptoms.
• Blood thinners
  Anticoagulants (blood thinners) help by preventing blood clots in the lung’s arteries. It also helps by delaying the clotting process. You should consult your doctor if you are on blood thinners and are thinking of a surgery.
• Oxygen therapy
  Oxygen therapy is another reliable treatment option for PAH. Doctors may prescribe supplemental oxygen to you if you have PAH, live on higher altitudes, or suffer from sleep apnea.

2. Surgery
Mentioned below are two surgical methods to treat PAH:

• Atrial septostomy
  Atrial septostomy is suggested in cases of severe PAH. An opening is created between the upper left and right chambers of the heart to relieve it of pressure.
• Transplantation
  Lung and heart-lung transplants are another surgical option that are advisable if you are experiencing severe PAH symptoms. The body’s rejection of the transplanted organ and serious infections are some major risks associated with transplantations.

Besides these treatment options for PAH, you should take ample rest, stay active, quit smoking, eat healthy, and get your symptoms checked regularly.