Pulmonary Hypertension

Since 2001, the Texas Children's Pulmonary Hypertension Program has been diagnosing and treating patients with pediatric pulmonary hypertension. In fact, Texas Children's Hospital has one of the few pulmonary hypertension programs in the United States dedicated to treating children.

Our highly experienced medical professionals have extensive training in the research, diagnosis and treatment of infants, children and teens with this rare condition.

Our commitment

The physicians and staff in Texas Children’s Pulmonary Hypertension Program are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality medical care in an open, honest and timely manner. Through our research efforts, we are focused on discovering treatment methods to improve the future outcomes of children with pulmonary hypertension.

What is pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition of high blood pressure in the lungs that makes it hard for the right side of the heart to pump blood into the blood vessels of the lungs.

What are common sypmtoms of pulmonary hypertension?

At first, pulmonary hypertension symptoms are very subtle and may include breathlessness and difficulty breathing while exercising. People may change their activity level to compensate for these symptoms. Other symptoms may include chest pain, fainting and leg swelling.

In children, the symptoms may be easy tiring with activity, poor growth or poor development. In more severe cases, bluish discoloration of the lips/face may be seen with activity or the child may faint with activity. If pulmonary hypertension progresses to heart failure, symptoms of swelling, weight gain, nausea and vomiting may also be noted.

What causes pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension can occur from a variety of causes. It can occur without obvious cause or reason; can be inherited or it can occur in association with another medical condition such as congenital heart disease, joint/connective tissue disease or lung disease.

What complications can pulmonary hypertension cause?

Pulmonary Hypertension can be associated with poor growth, heart failure, blood clots and bleeding.