Pulmonary hypertension is a rare lung disorder in which arteries carrying blood from heart to the lungs become narrowed and this making the blood flow difficult. So we can say that, PH is high blood pressure in the heart-to-lung system.
Knowing the numbers in pulmonary hypertension8-20 mm Hg at rest is the normal pulmonary artery pressure. If the pressure in the pulmonary artery is greater than 25 mm Hg at rest or 30 mm Hg during physical activity, it is abnormally high and is called pulmonary hypertension.
Symptoms and the long-term effects of pulmonary hypertension
Just like systemic high blood pressure can cause the heart to work harder trying to force the blood to the body, PH also affects the heart. When heart becomes too weak to pump enough blood, a heart failure occurs.
Early symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Racing heart beat
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Feeling light-headed especially during any physical activity
- Fainting
- Bluish skin or lips
Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnosis
Pulmonary hypertension develops slowly and could show no early symptoms. When symptoms start showing they may be attributed to asthma or other lung or heart conditions.
Just like any other lung disease diagnosis for PH, your pulmonologist may discuss your medical history, symptoms and risk factors including family history. Because having a nearby family member with pulmonary hypertension increases your risk of developing the disease. Your doctor may recommend certain diagnostic tests and procedures, such as:
- Echocardiograph
- X-ray of chest
- Electrocardiograph (EKG)
- CT scan
- MRI
- Lung function tests
- Blood test
- Lung ventilation/perfusion scan
Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment
Though PH has no cure, you can still live an active and fulfilling life by working with your pulmonologist and managing your symptoms. Get consulting for pulmonary hypertension in Ahmedabad, before taking over-the-counter medicine. Further lifestyle changes can improve your symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as:
- Quit smoking
- Watch out your weight
- Healthy diet
- Staying active
- Be cautious about air travel or high-altitude locations
Looking for Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment in Ahmedabad?
As said earlier, the treatment for pulmonary hypertension depends on the underlying cause. The condition worsens over time, but prior consultation and medication can help lessen symptoms and improve quality of life. Consult pulmonary hypertension doctor in Ahmedabad.