If you've been diagnosed with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH) as a result of Fen-Phen use, you are probably feeling a wide variety of emotions. You may be feeling angry, scared, overwhelmed and perhaps a bit confused about how all of this has happened to you. You're definitely not alone in this, and whatever you're feeling, it's perfectly normal.

There is no right or wrong way to feel, but whatever your situation, staying involved in your PPH treatment can help you feel more in control. Staying in regular contact with your doctor, asking plenty of questions about your treatment and health status, and finding out as much information as you can about your condition are all things that can help you feel a bit more secure at a time when you may be feeling that your life has spiraled out of control.

Once you have been diagnosed with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, the next step is discussing treatments with your doctor. Due to the nature of the disease, choosing the right PPH treatment for your condition can be a lengthy process. Diagnosis and treatment investigations can leave you feeling exhausted. Don't be afraid to rely on friends and family for help and support at this time.

Depending on your health status and the exact nature of your condition, your doctor may suggest Flolan treatment. This drug is used to treat high blood pressure in vessels that are associated with the lungs. It works by relaxing these blood vessels so that more blood can enter the lungs. This in turn puts less pressure on the heart, and reduces the effects of many of the symptoms of PPH.

Don't be afraid to ask questions throughout the diagnosis and treatment process; getting as much information as possible will help you feel more in control of what's happening to you. Here is a list of suggested questions that might be helpful at various stages of your diagnosis and treatment processes. You will likely have plenty of other questions, so it's a good idea to write down any questions you have and take the list with you to your appointments.

* What stage is your PPH disease at? What is your long-term prognosis?

* What kinds of symptoms will appear as the disease progresses?

* Which of these symptoms are dangerous? What should you do if any of these symptoms appear?

* What kinds of treatment options do you have? Is Flolan treatment the best choice?

* What are the side effects of Flolan? What can you do to reduce these side effects?

* How will your doctor know if the treatment is working?

* Are there lifestyle changes you can make that will help your body cope with the disease and with treatment?

* Are there any activities, foods, or over-the-counter medications you should avoid while undergoing Flolan treatment?

Having this kind of information can be very empowering. It may be frightening when you first understand that PPH is a serious condition, but not understanding exactly what is going on within your body is even more frightening. The more information you have about your disease, the better you will be able to cope.

Information also makes you safer. If you know from the start what kinds of warning signs to look out for in terms of symptoms, you will be able to get help much more quickly if those symptoms occur.

Another very useful question to ask your doctor is whether they can recommend a support group for you. Talking with others who are going through the same things you are can be reassuring, and the experiences of other people can also help you be prepared for the future.

If your doctor is unable to recommend a support group, or if one does not exist in your area, try searching the Internet to find out more information. The Pulmonary Hypertension Association web site, for example, has an extensive list of support groups for most US regions, and also provides links to associated web sites in other countries.

While there is currently no cure for PPH, it is possible to maintain a fairly normal lifestyle with effective treatment and lifestyle modifications. Adopting a positive attitude and reducing stress is effective, as it is with any long-term health condition. This can be difficult, but with the support of family and friends, and by staying informed about your disease and treatment, you can learn to live with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.