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Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a serious condition which affects the blood vessels in the lung, and can cause symptoms of breathlessness, and low levels of blood oxygen. Whether your child has a PH diagnosis or possible symptoms of PH, we can help. New and advanced treatments are improving outcomes for children living with PH. We have decades of expertise diagnosing and treating this condition and are proud to improve the lives of children with PH.
Pulmonary hypertension means there is high blood pressure in the lungs. Over time, it causes the lung’s arteries to narrow. This narrowing makes it hard for blood to flow from the heart to the lungs. As a result, the right side of the heart is stressed. Learn more about pulmonary hypertension in children.
Pulmonary Hypertension Program: Why Choose Us
Pediatric pulmonary hypertension is a complex condition. Children who have PH do better with medical teams that specialize in the latest therapies. At our nationally-ranked Heart Institute, you will find:
- World leaders in treating PH: Our doctors collaborate with medical experts around the world and the Pulmonary Hypertension Association. These partnerships enable our team to explore and discuss the latest treatment options – and have them available for children. Meet our pediatric heart center team.
- Full range of PH therapies: Our dedicated PH clinic provides advanced treatments that often are not available elsewhere. Children may receive breathing treatments or medication delivered through intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous pump infusion. A subcutaneous pump is a small pump that delivers a full range of by mouth medications under the skin.
- Mental health support: PH therapy is lifelong and living with PH requires emotional support throughout treatment. Our licensed psychologists provide ongoing mental and emotional health support to children with PH and their families.
- Support into the adult years: We work directly with your child’s providers to provide a smooth transition to adult medical care. We also teach you about your child’s care to empower you to make the best medical decisions possible.
- Experience: Our experts were among the first in the U.S to develop new therapies for PH. You can feel confident that our team has the knowledge to provide your child with the best treatment plan.
- Dedicated nurse care manager: You and your child will have a PH nurse care manager, who coordinates your care and serves as a point of contact. Your nurse care manager gets to know your family and your child’s medical needs.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Newborns
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) can occur in babies soon after birth. It is serious because a baby’s brain and other organs can be deprived of oxygen.
Babies who have PPHN may need lifesaving care in a newborn and infant critical care unit (NICCU). Our level IV NICCU delivers the highest standard of care for babies with the most complex health conditions. Learn more about our state-of-the-art NICCU and Fetal and Neonatal Institute.
Congenital Heart Defects and PH
Some children who have congenital heart defects may develop PH. Congenital heart defects are heart abnormalities that are present at birth. When congenital heart defects or another health condition causes PH, it’s called secondary PH.
In our PH program, children receive comprehensive evaluations to quickly find the cause of PH. No matter what heart defect your child is facing, our team has the expertise to treat it.
Your child also has the advantage of a multidisciplinary team on their side. Their collaboration ensures your child receives comprehensive treatment for both the heart defect and PH. Your child’s team includes:
- Cardiologists
- Cardiothoracic surgeons
- Psychologists
- PH nurse care manager
Pulmonary Hypertension and Congenital Lung Disorders
Congenital lung malformations (defects in the lungs’ structure) can cause PH. Expert CHLA pulmonologists work with our team to deliver multidisciplinary care for PH and lung conditions. Learn more about our nationally ranked pulmonology care.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension that occurs in children without a known cause is called idiopathic PH. Our PH program specializes in treating this rare condition and improving your child’s quality of life. Your child has access to subcutaneous and intravenous home infusion treatments that aren’t available at many other facilities. We also offer the full range of oral and inhaled medications.