Treatment is directed at the underlying illness. Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to increase the level of oxygen in the blood.
A diet low in salt is often recommended. Diuretics may be given to remove excess fluid from the body. Calcium channel blockers, intravenous prostacyclin, or the new oral medication, bosentan, may be used to treat pulmonary hypertension.
Surgery may be used to reverse heart defects that cause cor pulmonale. Blood thinning (anticoagulant) medications may also be prescribed.
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