Coordination for People with Asthma, Sleep Apnea, and Heart-Lung Interactions
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we understand that the heart and lungs often speak the same language, and when one is affected, the other must be considered. Our Cardio-Pulmonary Care service is designed for adults with conditions that overlap both systems, such as asthma, chronic shortness of breath, obstructive sleep apnea, and heart-lung circulation problems.
We help you manage symptoms, identify underlying causes, and prevent long-term complications through a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. This service is part of our Adult Cardiology Program and is available across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain
What Is Cardio-Pulmonary Interaction?
Your heart and lungs work in constant partnership: the lungs provide oxygen, and the heart delivers it to the body.
When there’s a disturbance in one, the other often shows signs. Some examples include:
Asthma or COPD leading to strain on the right side of the heart
Obstructive sleep apnea causing nightly drops in oxygen and elevated blood pressure
Pulmonary hypertension developing from chronic lung disease
Heart failure presenting as breathlessness, especially when lying down
Palpitations or fainting triggered by respiratory effort or poor oxygen exchange
Understanding how these systems interact is the key to lasting relief and effective management.
Who Should Seek Cardio-Pulmonary Evaluation?
You may benefit from a Cardio-Pulmonary workup if you:
Have asthma or COPD and experience worsening breathlessness or chest tightness
Snore heavily, feel drowsy during the day, or have been told you stop breathing at night
Have unexplained shortness of breath that hasn’t improved with inhalers or lung treatment
Have been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension or cor pulmonale
Experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting during exertion
Have coexisting conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes that worsen heart-lung function
If you’ve been seen by either a pulmonologist or a cardiologist — but symptoms persist — our integrated care approach can help.
What to Expect From Our Program
Your evaluation begins with a combined look at both heart and respiratory function. Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend:
ECG and echocardiogram to assess heart rhythm and pumping strength
Chest imaging (X-ray or CT scan) to review lung structure and airway clarity
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to evaluate asthma, COPD, or restrictive lung disease
Overnight oximetry or sleep study to assess for sleep apnea or oxygen drops
Cardiac stress testing if shortness of breath is exertional
Blood tests for oxygen levels, inflammation, or clotting risk
We create a treatment plan in partnership with your existing pulmonologist, or refer to one if needed.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
Cardiology-led care with awareness of lung-related contributors
Experience managing heart complications linked to respiratory disease
Access to pulmonology partnerships for shared diagnosis and follow-up
On-site cardiac testing — no delays, no duplication
Clear education about your condition and how to manage symptoms
Located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain for convenience and continuity
We connect the dots between your heart and lungs — and guide you toward control.
