Pulmonary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure, where the arteries and the right side of the heart are affected. In some forms of pulmonary hypertension, small arteries become narrowed, blocked, or even destroyed. This makes it difficult for blood to flow through the lungs. In the initial stage, the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension might not be noticeable for a long time. But they can get worse as the disease progresses.
Below are some common symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
1. Shortness of breath
When we look at the symptoms and causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), one of the first symptoms to develop is shortness of breath. This is observed when routine activities like climbing stairs, playing a sport, or even going for a walk becomes difficult.
One would experience shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing with the slightest of exertion. Along with breathing difficulty, there is usually a cough, wheezing, and a feeling of anxiety. One may notice blood in the mucus, chest pain, dizziness, and even fainting.
2. Fatigue
Fatigue is directly related to the narrowing of the arteries. When pulmonary arteries are narrowed, there is a shortage of oxygen supply to the lungs. This, in turn, causes a shortage of oxygen to the brain and other parts of the body.
This leads to a feeling of tiredness and lethargy. A person is likely to feel fatigued very fast. This is also an early sign of the disease.
3. Edema
Edema is swelling that is seen in the feet, ankles, and leg. This happens because of water retention, as a result of the kidneys not functioning well. The inability of the heart to pump blood due to artery narrowing can affect kidney functioning.
4. Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a condition where the lips turn blue in color. This is a symptom of pulmonary arterial hypertension as it advances. Because of PAH, the body does not get the required oxygen. When the oxygen supply to the lips is reduced, the lips turn bluish in color.
5. Heart-related problems
In PAH, the pulmonary arteries become constricted, thus increasing blood pressure. The heart is then forced to work harder to pump blood. When this continues without treatment, the muscles of the heart become weaker. This leads to problems in the heart.
The heartbeat may become erratic, and one may observe a racing pulse. Palpitations in the heart are also observed in some people. The right side of the heart may be enlarged. The problems with the heart muscles lead to chest pain and angina.
These are serious signs that can worsen with time. It is important to treat PAH at an early stage to prevent heart problems.
6. Complications
As the disease advances, many complications may arise. The right ventricle becomes enlarged and may even fail. PAH increases the risk of developing clots in the lungs. The combination of narrow arteries and clots can be fatal, if not treated on time.
Bleeding is one of the complications arising due to PAH. Bleeding into the lungs and coughing up blood can occur.