“Why am I so tired all the time?” If you’ve ever thought that while managing your pulmonary hypertension (PH), you’re not alone. Fatigue is a well-known PH symptom that often goes unaddressed. In my experience, sleep plays a factor in my fatigue levels. Despite getting what I thought was…
Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva
Hormone replacement therapy is often used to manage symptoms of menopause, but for those of us with conditions like pulmonary hypertension (PH) and congestive heart failure, it’s not so simple. The risks of hormone replacement therapy potentially worsening our fragile cardiovascular and renal systems make it a no-go for…
Managing pulmonary hypertension (PH) for 20 years has not only shaped my life, but it’s also allowed me to connect deeply with a resilient and inspiring community. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the strength of patients and caregivers who come together to support one another, champion awareness, and…
You may have noticed that I haven’t been writing much in the past few months. That’s because I recently suffered a fall at home that was unrelated to my pulmonary hypertension (PH). Rather, it happened because of my clumsiness as I tried to tackle my to-do list. The fall…
Note: This column describes one woman’s experiences with GLP-1 agonist medications. Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. Living with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a daily challenge that can strip away independence, mobility, and confidence. But for…
We can be tempted to push ourselves when we’re feeling OK and having a not-so-bad day with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Plans with family, weekends packed with activities, or even the excitement of feeling better than usual can make us want to do it all. But those of us with…
Recent news headlines have sparked significant concern among those of us in the pulmonary hypertension (PH) and other rare disease communities. The massive budget and staff cuts across multiple federal agencies are particularly troubling, prompting a flurry of conversations both online and in private. As we navigate these challenging…
In addition to physical challenges, living with a complex condition like pulmonary hypertension (PH) also means fighting mental and emotional battles. I constantly feel a push and pull between frustration and gratitude. But these are moments that can teach me a lot about myself and the people I love.
This time of year can feel heavy as many of us start reflecting on resolutions or goals we haven’t yet fulfilled. Maybe you promised yourself you’d eat a healthier diet or get more sleep, but life had other plans. It happens to the best of us. For those in the…
Are you managing chronic pain alongside pulmonary hypertension (PH)? Did it disrupt your holiday plans? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. Many folks in the PH and broader rare disease communities share similar frustrations with having to adjust plans because of unrelenting pain. Dealing with chronic pain…
Here we are, just a week before Christmas and somehow my brain is still stuck in November. How did that happen? This year has been a whirlwind of activity in terms of managing my pulmonary hypertension (PH) and other health challenges. The past six months have been especially rough…
If I asked you to list every medication you or a loved one takes — along with the doses — could you do it? You might be surprised how many in the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community can’t recall those details when it matters most. This year, I learned just…
