Pulmonary Hypertension and its Causes

What is this condition?

Pulmonary hypertension occurs when pulmonary artery pressure rises above normal, but is not caused by aging or altitude. Primary (idiopathic) pulmonary hypertension is rare, occurring most often in women between ages 20 and 40; pregnant women have the highest mortality. Secondary pulmonary hypertension is caused by existing cardiac or pulmonary disease. The prognosis depends on the severity of the underlying disorder.

What causes it?

Pulmonary hypertension Casues include altered immune mechanisms. Secondary pulmonary hypertension is caused by oxygen deprivation from an underlying disease.

What are its symptoms?

Most people complain of increasing shortness of breath on exertion, weakness, dizziness, and fatigue. Many also show signs of right-sided heart failure, including peripheral edema, ascites, neck vein distention, and liver enlargement. Other clinical effects vary according to the underlying disorder.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnostic tests for pulmonary hypertension include the following:
  • listening to the lungs through a stethoscope
  • arterial blood gas analysis
  • electrocardiography
  • cardiac catheterization
  • pulmonary angiography
  • pulmonary function tests.

How is it treated?

Treatment usually includes oxygen therapy. For people with right ventricular failure, treatment also includes fluid restriction, digitalis glycosides to increase cardiac output, and diuretics to decrease intravascular volume and extravascular fluid accumulation. Of course, an important goal of treatment is correction of the underlying cause.

What can a person with pulmonary hypertension do?

  • Avoid overexertion, and always rest between activities.
  • Be sure to follow the prescribed diet and medication schedule.

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