Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious condition that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. It occurs when the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries becomes abnormally high, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this can lead to heart failure and other complications....READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE | READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE...
The challenge with pulmonary hypertension is that its early symptoms are often mild and mistaken for other conditions. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent severe complications.
7 Key Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension
1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
One of the earliest and most common symptoms of PH is difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity. As the condition worsens, breathlessness can occur even at rest.
2. Fatigue and Weakness
Persistent tiredness and a general feeling of weakness can occur due to reduced oxygen supply to the muscles and organs. This symptom is often overlooked as normal fatigue but should not be ignored.
3. Chest Pain or Pressure
Some people with PH experience chest discomfort, which can feel like tightness or pain, particularly during exertion. This occurs because the heart is straining to push blood through narrowed pulmonary arteries.
4. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, and Abdomen (Edema)
Fluid retention, particularly in the lower limbs and abdomen, is a sign that the heart is struggling to pump effectively. This can indicate worsening heart function due to PH.
5. Dizziness or Fainting (Syncope)
Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or even fainting is a serious symptom of PH. It happens when the brain does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, often due to reduced cardiac output.
6. Bluish Lips or Skin (Cyanosis)
A lack of sufficient oxygen in the blood can cause the lips and skin to take on a bluish tint. This is a clear sign that oxygen circulation is severely compromised.
7. Irregular or Racing Heartbeat (Palpitations)
People with PH may notice a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest. This irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) happens because the heart is under strain, trying to compensate for the increased pressure in the lungs.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Symptoms
Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce complications such as heart failure. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms persistently, seeking medical evaluation is crucial. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, oxygen therapy or surgery.