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Pulmonary Hypertension
Urgent
Pulmonary hypertension means abnormally high pressure in the lung circulation, which can strain the right side of the heart. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is one particular form. Symptoms can include breathlessness, fatigue, chest discomfort, dizziness, or fainting, especially during activity.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Pulmonary hypertension requires medical evaluation and ongoing specialist management because it can place increasing strain on the right side of the heart. Seek prompt care when shortness of breath is new or worsening, chest pain develops, dizziness or fainting occurs, or palpitations become persistent. Emergency assessment is needed for severe chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, bluish skin, or sudden neurological symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Pulmonary hypertension means abnormally high pressure in the lung circulation, which can strain the right side of the heart. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is one particular form. Symptoms can include breathlessness, fatigue, chest discomfort, dizziness, or fainting, especially during activity.
Symptoms 3
Chest Pain
Coughing Blood
High Blood Pressure
Causes 2
Pulmonary hypertension is classified into five groups: pulmonary arterial hypertension; disease related to the left side of the heart; lung disease or low oxygen; obstruction of pulmonary arteries, including chronic clot-related disease; and conditions with unclear or multiple mechanisms. These groups have different causes and should not all be described as pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Chronic Disease
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk depends on the form of pulmonary hypertension. Associated factors can include heart or chronic lung disease, low oxygen levels, previous pulmonary blood clots, connective tissue disease such as scleroderma, and certain inherited conditions or exposures. A factor relevant to one form may not apply to another.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Evaluation includes medical history, examination, and tests of heart and lung function. Echocardiography assesses heart function and the likelihood of pulmonary hypertension. Right-heart catheterization directly measures pressures when indicated. Further investigations identify the underlying cause and help distinguish the different forms.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Pulmonary hypertension cannot always be prevented
Possible risk-reduction measures depend on the underlying cause and individual circumstances
People with relevant heart, lung, inherited, or other associated conditions can discuss appropriate assessment and risk reduction with their healthcare professional
Prevention Guidance
Pulmonary hypertension cannot always be prevented. Possible risk-reduction measures depend on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. People with relevant heart, lung, inherited, or other associated conditions can discuss appropriate assessment and risk reduction with their healthcare professional.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Vegetables
Support cardiovascular health.
Whole Grains
Provide balanced nutrition.
Lean Protein
Supports overall health.
Foods to Avoid
Excess Salt
May worsen blood pressure.
Alcohol
May aggravate symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is high blood pressure in the lung arteries.
Shortness of breath, fatigue and chest pain are common.
Heart and lung diseases are common causes.
Echocardiography and cardiac testing help diagnosis.
Yes, medications and lifestyle changes can help.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.