Pulmonary Hypertension Symptoms and Signs

Introduction

Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) can be described as a medical condition that results in elevated tension in the blood vessels in the lung. What makes PH especially dangerous is the gradual way it develops symptoms usually show up in a subtle manner and gradually increase over time. Many people misinterpret these symptoms for tiredness, aging or being “out out of shape.” But, not recognizing these signs can result in grave complications, such as right-sided heart failure.

In this blog we’ll take a closer take a look at most prominent signs that are a sign of Hypertension as well as their symptoms, the triggers them, and the reasons why they shouldn’t be overlooked.

1. The Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)

One of the most common and most frequently observed signs that are a sign of Pulmonary Hypertension can be breathlessness in particular when you are doing physical activities like going up and down stairs, climbing stairs or doing exercises. At first you might only feel it when exercising but as the problem becomes more severe, everyday activities like dressing yourself or walking for short distances can cause breathing problems.

The reason it happens:

Because of the high pressure in the pulmonary arteries the heart has difficulty pumping blood effectively through the lungs. This causes a decrease in oxygen exchange and makes you feel exhausted even though oxygen demand isn’t that high.

What does it feel like:

• An intense feeling of gasping or the inability to “get enough air”

• The chest may feel heavy in the course of an activity.

• You’ll need to stop and re-evaluate your routine to take a breath

2. Weakness and fatigue

Chronic fatigue is a different sign associated with Pulmonary Hypertension. It’s not the usual fatigue following a long day. It’s a constant, profound feeling of fatigue that doesn’t get better with time.

What causes it to happen:

Because the heart is stressed as well as oxygen supply compromised the organs and muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen rich blood that they require. This causes the body’s cells becoming fatigued and weak throughout the body.

What does it feel like:

• Finding it difficult to manage the demands of daily life

• A feeling of being drained, even after a night of restful sleep

• In need of frequent breaks to lie or sit down

3. Chest Pressure or Pain

A few people with PH feel chest pains in particular during physical activity. The discomfort could be like the feeling of angina (heart-related chest discomfort) however the reason is distinct.

The reason it happens:

The right ventricle of the heart is working more efficiently to pump blood against the resistance of the lungs. This causes tension and a lack of circulation of blood to the muscle. This may cause pressure or pain especially during times when your heart may be under strain.

How does it feel:

• A feeling of tightness or ache that is not painful in the chest.

• The sensation of pressure is felt in the middle of the chest.

• Sometimes, they are triggered or worsened through activity

4. Swelling (Edema) within the Legs, Ankles, and Abdomen

The swelling in the lower part of the body, especially the ankles, feet, or legs can be a glaring sign of PH. At advanced stages, fluid could build up within the abdominal area (ascites).

The reason it happens:

The part of the right heart gets weaker it loses its effectiveness in pumping blood forward. This causes a back-up of blood vessels, which causes fluid to leak out of blood vessels, and accumulate in tissues, an issue called peripheral edema.

How does it feel:

• A puffy ankle, tightness in shoes

• Imprint marks are created when pressing on the skin

• Bloating or fullness in the abdomen

5. Affliction or Dizziness (Syncope)

Feeling dizzy, lightheaded or even fainting may occur for those suffering from Pulmonary Hypertension particularly when exercising.

What causes it to happen:

The brain could receive less oxygen because of the reduced flow of blood due to the heart’s inability of pumping effectively. When blood pressure falls or oxygen levels fall to low levels, fainting could occur.

How does it feel:

• Lightheadedness following standing up

• The blackout briefly occurs during the activity.

• A feeling of spinning or an imbalance

This is a particularly risky symptom as it could lead to accidents or falls, and typically is a sign that PH is at an advanced stage.

6. Bluish Lips or Skin (Cyanosis)

A blue-colored tint on the lips, fingertips or skin is an alarming sign. typically, it is a sign of the low oxygen levels in blood, which is the direct result of a low lung function caused by PH.

What causes it to happen:

When the oxygen concentration in the blood decreases below levels that are normal the less oxygen is able to reach your tissues. The blue color is due to the higher levels of deoxygenated hemoglobin present in your blood.

What it feels and looks like:

• Blue or purple lips and tongues. Fingernails can be found on the fingernails.

• Particularly noticeable particularly in cold climates

• It is often associated with shortness of breath and fatigue.

7. Rapid or irregular heartbeat (Palpitations)

A lot of people suffering from PH are conscious of their heartbeat which can be irregular or fast. It is also known as palpitations.

The reason it happens:

Right side of heart expands and becomes more active in coping with the pressure that builds up in the lung. This could cause electrical disruptions and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

How does it feel:

• The chest feels tense and shaky.

• Pounding heartbeat even at rest

• Inequal rhythms or skip beats

8. Dry Cough or Hoarseness

Although it is less prevalent, persistent dry cough, or hoarseness could often be linked to PH.

The reason it happens:

In rare instances the enlarged pulmonary arterial may press against nearby nerves, including the laryngeal nerve that controls the vocal cords. The pressure may cause hoarseness (known as Ortner’s syndrome) or constant coughing.

How does it feel:

• Dry cough that is constant and without mucus

• A voice that is sibilantly loud, particularly in the early morning

• Do you feel like clearing your throat regularly

Conclusion

Pulmonary Hypertension is usually described as being a “silent” condition due to the fact that its symptoms tend to develop slowly and may be misinterpreted as more serious issues. But any symptom — whether it’s fatigue, shortness of breath or swelling–is a signal that your lung and heart are in stress. The sooner these symptoms are acknowledged, the earlier the treatment will begin to improve your quality of life and reduce the progress of the disease.

If you or someone else in your family has any of these symptoms particularly in combination it’s important to speak with an expert doctor or cardiologist as soon as possible. The condition of pulmonary Hypertension is a complicated but treatable disease The key is in prompt detection, accurate diagnosis, and a consistent treatment.