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Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Right Heart Catheterization Tomorrow

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Sterling, CO

It’s been over a year since my last right heart cath. Doc said it’s time for another one. It is scheduled for Thursday August 15. He said the findings during the RHC will determine if my medical regimen needs to change or not. Some days, I think things are improving; other days it seems they are worsening. That just seems to be how this PAH situation goes for me. Doc will assess the pressures in the heart, and will measure the size of the chamber to see if it has enlarged, gotten smaller, or… read more

August 14, 2024
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A myPHteam Member

MichaelBrand:
I apologize for intruding on your reply to StevenSmith2.
It may not be Sotatercept, although it could be. There are several medications that could be added as a third pathway. It largely depends on what he is now taking and which one would be more beneficial in his treatment protocol.
I have had a third medication added to my PAH protocol this week and it is Uptravi (Selexipag). My PAH team felt that would be the most beneficial for me. I did ask about Sotatercept but they felt it was not a good fit for me. I already am taking Sildenafil and Ambrisentan. Now this covers the third pathway. So, it all depends on what your PAH Specialist feels is right for you.
Jeannette

August 14, 2024 (edited)
A myPHteam Member

StevenSmith2 Good deal! If they start you on a third, it will be Sotatarcept. It is great my daughter is on it now and I will be on maybe Dec. Prayers for you!

August 14, 2024
A myPHteam Member

Yes, please let us know. Good luck!

August 14, 2024
A myPHteam Member

Here are some key points to know about Right Heart Catheterization (RHC) for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH):

Before the Procedure
- Preparation: Your doctor will review your medical history and may ask you to temporarily stop certain medications. Inform them about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs or Show Full Answer

Here are some key points to know about Right Heart Catheterization (RHC) for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH):

Before the Procedure:
- Preparation: Your doctor will review your medical history and may ask you to temporarily stop certain medications. Inform them about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs or supplements you are taking.
- Fasting: You should not eat or drink anything for six hours or more before the procedure.
- Transportation: Arrange for a friend, family member, or caregiver to take you home afterward.

During the Procedure:
- IV Line: An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into a vein in your arm to provide fluids and test medications.
- Positioning: You will lie on your back on a padded exam table.
- Electrodes: Electrodes will be attached to your skin to measure your heart’s electrical activity.
- Sedation: You may receive a mild sedative to help you relax, but it won’t put you to sleep.
- Catheter Insertion: The catheter is usually inserted through a vein in the neck, arm, or groin area and guided into the right side of your heart.
- Measurements: The doctor will take measurements in the right atrium, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery. You may be asked to perform simple exercises during the procedure.

Sensations:
- You may feel chest fluttering, lightheadedness, pressure in veins, or a warm sensation from the medications.
- The procedure typically takes about an hour.

After the Procedure:
- Monitoring: You will stay at the facility for a couple of hours to be monitored as you recover.
- Results Discussion: Your doctor may discuss your results and a potential treatment plan with you.
- Post-Procedure Care: You will receive instructions on how to care for yourself and the catheter incision.
- Activity Restrictions: Due to the mild sedative, avoid driving, operating machinery, or exerting yourself physically for a period of time as determined by your doctor.

Tips from Others:
- Many people have found the procedure to be relatively painless and straightforward. One member noted, “I was scared, too, but it wasn’t bad or painful at all.”

Good luck with your procedure!

August 14, 2024
A myPHteam Member

I had a right heart cath a couple years ago. My most recent Pulmonary function tests show my scores are borderline. I have another Cath tentative in November. My pulmonologist wants me to walk 5000 steps per day, every day. I brought a "short" treadmill (for walking not running) in an effort to increase my exercise ... but I don't see how I'm going to reach 5000 steps a day!!

August 18, 2024

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