ecg in pulmonary hypertension

Electrocardiogram (ECG) findings in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) commonly encompass right ventricular hypertrophy, right bundle branch block, and pulmonary P waves. These alterations indicate the heart's adaptive mechanisms in response to elevated pulmonary arterial pressures.

Primarily, right ventricular hypertrophy is one of the most frequent ECG findings in PAH, evidenced by a ratio of R to S wave amplitude greater than 1 in lead V1 and less than 1 in lead V5. Additionally, right bundle branch block is another prevalent ECG finding, manifesting as an rSR' pattern or an M pattern in lead V1 and an S pattern in lead V5. Furthermore, pulmonary P waves, characterized by tall and peaked P waves with amplitudes of at least 0.25mV, are also a significant ECG feature of PAH.

However, it's important to note that not all PAH patients will display these ECG changes, as they can be influenced by a variety of factors including age, gender, and underlying medical conditions. Consequently, ECG results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and additional diagnostic tests for a comprehensive assessment.

For individuals suspected of having PAH, it is advised to seek prompt medical attention and undergo pertinent diagnostic procedures such as chest X-rays, echocardiograms, and right heart catheterizations to establish a clear diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment strategy. Throughout treatment, patients should adhere to prescribed medication regimens, engage in regular follow-ups, and be prepared for potential adjustments to their treatment plans as needed.