Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a condition that affects the lungs of people diagnosed with chronic liver disease. In the lungs, capillaries (small blood vessels that can be found throughout the body) play a crucial role in the oxygenation of the blood. When the liver is severely damaged, the capillaries in the lungs become dilated, affecting the absorption of oxygen by the red blood cells. As a result of the dilated capillaries, the lungs are not able to provide the body with adequate amounts of oxygen, resulting in a condition known as hypoxemia.
Low levels of oxygen in the blood have a major impact on the body. Most common symptoms of HPS include shortness of breath and difficulty breathing that is relieved when lying down. A common treatment option for HPS is supplemental oxygen. The ultimate cure for HPS is a liver transplant. Once an individual has a healthy liver, the capillaries in the lungs will revert to their original size allowing the blood in the lungs to oxygenate, eliminating associated symptoms and curing the individual of HPS.
For more information on Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS) please visit hpscare.com.