Volume Management in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Patients: An Expert Pulmonary Hypertension Clinician Perspective

Abstract

Fluid volume management in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is essential in preventing right ventricular failure. Volume overload may be caused by disease progression, indiscretion of dietary sodium and fluid intake, or medication side effects, and is a frequent complication in patients with PAH. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) who care for patients with PAH have a key role in monitoring, preventing, and managing volume overload. Volume management techniques in patients with PAH include managing diuretic use and electrolyte imbalances, and monitoring fluid retention that can occur from the use of endothelin receptor antagonists or calcium channel blockers. Healthcare providers can create volume management protocols as well as patient educational materials. Patients should be educated to self-monitor their daily weights, incorporate dietary restrictions, and recognize symptoms associated with volume overload. Tools to help HCPs with volume management in patients with PAH are provided in this article. Funding Actelion Pharmaceuticals US, Inc.