Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a serious cardiovascular and respiratory condition characterized by abnormally high blood pressure in the arteries supplying blood to the lungs. This increased pressure forces the right side of the heart to work harder, which can eventually lead to right-sided heart failure if left untreated. PH may develop due to various underlying causes, including chronic lung diseases, congenital heart defects, blood clots in the lungs, connective tissue disorders, or may occur without a known cause (idiopathic).

Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and swelling in the legs or abdomen. Because these symptoms often develop gradually, diagnosis may be delayed. Doctors use tests such as echocardiograms, chest imaging, pulmonary function tests, and right heart catheterization to confirm the condition and determine its severity.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications to relax blood vessels, blood thinners, oxygen therapy, diuretics, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, advanced therapies or lung transplantation may be considered. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential for improving quality of life, slowing disease progression, and reducing complications associated with this potentially life-threatening disorder.