Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) - Causes, Symptoms & Treament

Overview

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries are higher than the normal range. It is different compared to the blood pressure which commonly discussed. It is a life threatening condition and worsens over time.

Signs and Symptoms

Shortness of breath, Chest pain, Fatigue, Passing out, Swelling on your ankles and legs

Common Causes

Congestive heart failure, Blood clots in the lungs, HIV, Illegal drug use (like cocaine or methamphetamine), Liver disease (such as cirrhosis of the liver), Autoimmune diseases, Congenital heart disease, Lung diseases, Sleep apnea

Risk Factors

Women of childbearing age, Family history of the disease

Investigation Techniques

Blood tests, Electrocardiogram, Breathing tests (pulmonary function tests), 6 minute walk test, Echocardiogram, Right Heart Catheterization

Treatment and Prevention

Oxygen therapy, Blood thinning medication, Calcium channel blockers, Atrial septostomy (Rarely)

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