3. Diagnostic Procedures for Pulmonary Hypertension

Diagnostic procedures for pulmonary hypertension involve a series of tests to assess lung and heart function. First, doctors may perform an echocardiogram, an ultrasound that examines heart structures and blood flow. A chest X-ray or CT scan can visualize the lungs and blood vessels. Lastly, a right heart catheterization is often conducted, where a thin tube is inserted into the heart to measure pressure in the pulmonary arteries. These tests help confirm a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension and determine its severity, guiding further treatment decisions.