Nutritional Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition that can lead to heart failure. There is no cure at this time. It can be caused by a genetic defect, a blood clot in the lungs, lung or heart valve disease, obstructive sleep apnea and even certain diet medications, according to the New York Times Health Guide. Treatment is designed to manage the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension. Nutritional supplements can be used to help relieve the effects of the condition.

Defining Pulmonary Hypertension

• The University of Maryland Medical Center defines pulmonary hypertension as high blood arterial blood pressure within the lungs. Chest pain, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, leg swelling, light-headedness or shortness of breath during activity or a general feeling of weakness are all potential symptoms, according to the New York Times Health Guide.

Treatment

• Those with diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension should be under a doctor's care. Nutritional therapies are designed to treat symptoms and strengthen the body. They do not treat pulmonary hypertension and should be considered supplementary to medical treatment.

Blood Pressure

• There are nutritional supplements that will lower blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and possibly reducing the risks of heart failure. They are coenzyme Q10 and taurine. A person who is taking blood-thinning medication should not use taurine.

Heart Strength

• There are some supplements available that improve heart strength, efficiency and endurance as well as the improve heart contraction. These medications are L-carnitine, magnesium aspartate and potassium. Do not take L-carnitine while taking blood-thinners or thyroid hormone. Magnesium reacts with a variety of medications. Inform the doctor of any other medications or herbal supplements taken. Vitamin E may also provide antioxidants that strengthen the heart and immune system.

Doctor Supervision

• Pulmonary hypertension suffers face a difficult prognosis. Due to the risk of heart failure that comes with pulmonary hypertension, doctors should supervise all treatments, including the recommendation of nutritional supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.