High blood pressure that affects the lungs and heart
Pulmonary hypertension is a form of high blood pressure affecting arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. It can develop on its own or progress from other conditions, and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension include:
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
- chest pressure
- fatigue
- swelling in ankles and legs
- bluish colour to lips and skin (cyanosis).
However, in some cases, people may have no noticeable symptoms.
Pulmonary hypertension can be caused by:
- gene mutations that cause familial pulmonary hypertension
- heart abnormalities present at birth (congenital heart disease)
- mitral valve or aortic valve disease
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis
- sleep apnoea
- chronic blood clots
- blood disorders
- metabolic disorders.
Pulmonary hypertension is often difficult to diagnose at an early stage as it is often not detected in a routine heart check.
The doctor may review your medical and family history and discuss signs and symptoms to diagnose the condition.
Some of the tests that are used include:
- echocardiogram
- chest X-ray
- electrocardiogram (ECG)
- right-heart catheterisation
- blood tests
- computerised tomography (CT scan)
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Pulmonary hypertension does not have a cure; however, doctors can help manage the condition and slow its progress.
A treatment plan can include regular testing, medication or procedures, depending on the severity of the condition.
Risk factors for pulmonary hypertension include:
- obesity
- family history
- use of illegal drugs such as cocaine
- certain appetite-suppressant medications