Pulmonary Hypertension

Woman painful grimace pressing the upper abdomenPulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition that develops when the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which carries blood from the right side of your heart to your lungs, is too high.

Pulmonary hypertension causes blood vessels in the lungs to become narrowed, blocked, or damaged. The heart must work harder than normal to pump blood into the lungs because of these problems. This can cause damage to the heart and lead to symptoms including:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Heart palpitations
  • Edema or swelling of the feet, legs, or abdomen

Pulmonary hypertension can lead to serious complications such as:

  • Bleeding in the lungs
  • Heart failure
  • Heart enlargement
  • Arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Liver damage
  • Anemia

The causes of pulmonary hypertension depend on the type of pulmonary hypertension you might have. Here are the five classifications of PH based on their causes:

  • Group 1: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) –The causes of PAH can be idiopathic (an unknown cause or caused by an underlying health condition) or genetic. PAH can also develop due to illegal drug use, congenital heart defects, or certain medical conditions such as lupus.
  • Group 2: Pulmonary hypertension caused by left-sided heart disease- This is the most common type of PH. The causes include left heart failure or left-sided heart valve disease.
  • Group 3: Pulmonary hypertension due to lung disease and/or hypoxia- This develops due to pulmonary fibrosis or the scarring of the lungs, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or prolonged exposure to high altitudes.
  • Group 4: Pulmonary hypertension due to pulmonary artery obstructions or blockages in the lungs– Blockages or obstructions may include blood clots in the lungs or tumors that block pulmonary arteries.
  • Group 5: Pulmonary hypertension caused by other disorders or health conditions- These disorders or health conditions can include kidney disease, blood disorders such as sickle disease, or metabolic conditions such as thyroid disease.

 The risk factors for developing pulmonary hypertension include:

  • A family history of blood clots
  • A family history of pulmonary hypertension
  • Living at high altitudes
  • Use of illegal drugs
  • Smoking or using tobacco products
  • Exposure to asbestos
  • Taking certain medications designed to treat depression or cancer
  • Age (PH is usually diagnosed in adults between ages 30 and 60. The risk increases as you get older.)

Pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through various tests, such as an echocardiogram, which measures the pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Additional tests may include blood tests, chest X-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG). Your healthcare provider will also assess your medical history and symptoms to determine if you have pulmonary hypertension. Treatment options for pulmonary hypertension may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

If you are experiencing symptoms of pulmonary hypertension or are at risk, please call the Division of Pulmonary Medicine at 718-206-5916 to schedule an appointment.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.