PAH Patient Treatment Checklist

PAH Patient Treatment Checklist:

Questions About Your Diagnosis

• Have we confirmed that I have PAH?

• What is the cause of my PAH?

• Are there any unique complicating factors that make my condition different from others with PAH?

• How advanced is my disease?

• How would you grade the severity of my PAH – mild, moderate, or severe?

• Do I need a lung transplant, or will I need one in the future?

• Where can I find reliable info about PAH and its treatment?

Questions About Your Treatment

• What are the goals of my treatment plan? What can I realistically accomplish?

• What medicines do you recommend I take and why? What are the pros and cons?

• Do I need to take blood thinners?

• How is each medication delivered (pill, inhaled, intravenous, subcutaneous)?

• How frequently will I need to take each medicine?

• What are the possible side effects?

• Are there medications I should avoid?

• Does this medication have any interactions with other medications I take?

• What kind of monitoring is required, both for medications and the progress of my disease?

• Where can I get more information about these medications?

• How do I get my medications and refills?

• What therapies do you recommend?

• Is an exercise program appropriate?

• Would I benefit from pulmonary rehab?

• Are there any new exercises or treatments?

• Do I need oxygen therapy?

• How is oxygen therapy used?

• What should I do if I have an emergency?

Questions About Your Lifestyle

• Will I be able to go back to work?

• Can I drive?

• How much daily exertion can I take?

• Can I do housework?

• Can I lift up my children?

• Is it safe for me to travel?

• What changes do you recommend to my diet and nutrition?

• Do I need to reduce salt in my diet? How can I do that?

• Are there patient support groups in my area? Which do you recommend?

• Are there support groups for my family and caregivers? Which do you recommend?

• Can I take medication for depression and/or anxiety?