Copd Exacerbation and Pulmonary Hypertension Trial

Copd Exacerbation and Pulmonary Hypertension Trial

This trial will investigate whether patiens admitted with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive lung disease and pulmonary hypertension will benefit from a targeted pharmacological treatment.

During admittance due to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive lung disease will patience have an echocardiography to examine their pulmonary pressure. If patient have a tricuspidal return gradient above 40 mmHg, they will receive treatment with a phosphordiesterase-5-inhibitor, Sildenafil.

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD verified by specialist and spirometry
• Admitted with the diagnosis "acute exacerbation of COPD"
• TR-gradient ≥40 mmHg verified by specialist and echocardiography
• Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known pulmonal hypertension
• Known heart disease which affects the pump function of the heart
• Men <40 years
• Women <55 years
• Not-menopauseal women <55 years (Menopause is defined as no menstruation within 12 months.)
• Severe mental illness which significantly complicates cooperation
• Severe language difficulties which significantly complicates cooperation
• known allergy to Sildenafil
• Sildenafil consumption ≥50 mg / week due to other indications