Pulmonary Hypertension

7 warnings your body gives about your health

- Dr. Prashant Bobhate

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic, life-threatening condition involving high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. Unlike common hypertension, PH specifically affects the pulmonary arteries, making it harder for the heart to pump blood through the lungs. Over time, this strain can lead to severe complications such as heart failure. Recognizing the early signs of pulmonary hypertension is crucial for timely intervention and better quality of life. Here are seven key symptoms to watch for:

Shortness of breath Shortness of breath is one of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms of pulmonary hypertension. Initially, it may occur only during physical activities like climbing stairs or walking uphill. As the condition progresses, even routine tasks or resting may lead to difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath is a hallmark sign of PH, though it can also indicate other conditions like asthma or anemia. If it persists, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Fatigue and weakness Feeling unusually tired or weak could signal PH, as the heart works harder to push blood through the lungs. This leads to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles and organs, causing physical exertion to feel draining.