Pulmonary Hypertension

There are five main groups of PH, each with different causes. Some of the most common causes of PH include:

• Left-sided heart disease: This is the most common cause of PH in the United States. It occurs when the left side of the heart is not working properly, which can back up blood into the lungs and raise blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
• Lung disease: Certain lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema, can damage the lungs and make it harder for blood to flow through them. This can lead to PH.
• Scleroderma and other connective tissue diseases: These diseases can cause thickening and scarring of the tissues in the lungs, which can increase blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
• Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary emboli): These can block blood flow through the lungs and raise blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
• Exposure to high altitudes: Living or spending time at high altitudes can increase blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This is usually mild and goes away when you return to a lower altitude. However, in some people, it can lead to more severe PH.

Symptoms

The symptoms of PH can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Early symptoms may be mild and include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during exercise
• Fatigue
• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Chest pain

As the condition worsens, symptoms may become more severe and include:

• Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen
• Rapid heart rate (palpitations)
• Bluish tint to the skin and lips (cyanosis)

Diagnosis and Treatment

There is no cure for PH, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment for PH will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.