What does the end stage of CTEPH look like?
The end stages of CTEPH can be serious if left untreated. Without treatment, CTEPH continues to progress, and life expectancy is typically one to three years.
As CTEPH advances, symptoms become more severe and may include:
- Severe shortness of breath, even at rest
- Extreme Show Full Answer
What does the end stage of CTEPH look like?
The end stages of CTEPH can be serious if left untreated. Without treatment, CTEPH continues to progress, and life expectancy is typically one to three years.
As CTEPH advances, symptoms become more severe and may include:
- Severe shortness of breath, even at rest
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Significant swelling in the legs and feet (edema)
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Fainting episodes
- In rare cases, coughing up blood
The good news is that CTEPH has many treatment options that can help people live longer and healthier lives. Surgery, particularly pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA), offers the best chance at improving outcomes. Studies show that PEA improves three-year survival rates to 89 percent, compared to only 71 percent for those who don't have surgery.
For people who aren't candidates for surgery, other treatments like balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) or medications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to preventing progression to end-stage disease.
February 8
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