Mrs. Wynne suffers from Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) -- high-blood pressure in the lungs. PH causes the small vessels that supply blood from the heart through the lungs to constrict, seriously hampering blood flow through the vessels. Consequently, the right side of the heart works harder and becomes less flexible. As blood flowing out of the heart is reduced, symptoms, such as fatigue and fainting, are increased. Mrs. Wynne ignored her symptoms. Then, two years after being diagnosed, her condition worsened, and she began to faint often. In need of specialized, comprehensive care, she turned to Winthrop's Pulmonary Hypertension Center, one of only a few specialty centers on Long Island that caters to the special needs of PH patients.

Terence Trow, MD, Medical Director of the Center, evaluated Mrs. Wynne's condition and immediately admitted her to the Hospital. "We snatched her from death," he said. "When someone starts fainting and blacking out like she did, it's serious."

According to Dr. Trow, PH is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. "The disease exhibits vague symptoms such as light-headedness and chest pains," he explained. "Because PH is life-threatening, we want to increase the index of concern in the community so that those like Mrs. Wynne are able to be treated quickly and enjoy a better quality of life."

A chronic condition, PH strains and weakens the heart over time. To develop a specific strategy for individualized total quality care, the Center's team works closely with cardiologists in Winthrop's Institute for Heart Care.

Thanks to Winthrop's diligent evaluation and treatment, Mrs. Wynne felt better within two days after Dr. Trow placed her on a pump-infused medication that significantly improved her breathing ability and day-to-day functioning.

"I am thankful every day that I found Dr. Trow and that medication," she said. Her husband echoed her sentiments. "The Center's program really has turned things around for Teresa," he said.

Mrs. Wynne visits the Center regularly for evaluation, including a six-minute walk to assess her exercise performance.And patients are encouraged to participate in a support group hosted at the Hospital by Mary Bartlett, NP, the Center's Nurse Practitioner. "Time and time again patients mention how personable and available the Center's dedicated staff is, and they really appreciate that we put a personal touch on their care," she explained. "It truly makes a difference."

The Winthrop Pulmonary Hypertension Center has access to resources that help patients deal with PH and tailor their therapy. For more information, contact the Center at (516) 663-2834.