Lung Artery High Pressure: Causes, Indications, and Remedies
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a serious condition that affects the arteries in the lungs, leading to high blood pressure within these vessels. This condition, which can be life-threatening if left untreated, is not fully understood, but researchers have identified various factors that may contribute to its development.
While genetic mutations, such as changes in the BMPR2 gene, can cause PAH in some cases, the majority of cases are associated with other medical conditions or exposures. Notable causes include certain underlying diseases like sickle cell disease and tumors pressing on the pulmonary artery, infections like HIV and schistosomiasis, liver-related conditions, connective tissue autoimmune diseases, heart and lung problems, drug-related causes, and exposure to toxins [1][3][5].
These factors either narrow or block the pulmonary arteries, increasing pressure in these vessels and forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the lungs. This can lead to the symptoms and complications of PAH, which include severe shortness of breath after exertion, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, a cough that may bring up blood, swelling in the face, feet, ankles, and stomach, and cyanosis (the discoloration of the lips, skin, tongue, and other mucous membranes) in advanced cases [3][5].
The diagnosis of PAH is made through a procedure called right heart catheterization, which measures blood flow in the pulmonary artery. It is essential to get an accurate diagnosis as the symptoms of PAH are similar to those of other conditions that affect the heart [6].
While there is no cure for PAH, treatment can help reduce symptoms and prolong survival. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several drugs for PAH, including prostaglandins, endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, vasodilators, riociguat (Adempas), and selexipag (Uptravi) [7]. Some people may need to receive oxygen therapy or undergo an organ transplant (heart-lung, single lung, or double lung) as a form of treatment [8].
Adopting certain lifestyle measures may also help improve symptoms. These include quitting smoking, consuming a heart-healthy diet, reaching or maintaining a moderate weight, staying active, and avoiding heavy lifting or activities that cause strain [2].
The survival rate for individuals with PAH has improved in the last 20 years, with a 1-year survival rate of about 91%, a 3-year survival rate of about 74%, a 5-year survival rate of about 65%, and a 7-year survival rate of about 59% [4]. However, the survival rate for individuals with PAH of unknown cause may vary, and a person can talk with a doctor about how their condition is likely to affect them [9].
It is crucial to contact a doctor if you experience any symptoms of PAH, such as fatigue, severe shortness of breath after exertion, and chest pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with PAH.
[1] Pulmonary Hypertension Association. (n.d.). Causes of PAH. Retrieved from https://www.phassociation.org/Understanding-PAH/Causes-of-PAH
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021, March 31). Pulmonary arterial hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-arterial-hypertension/symptoms-causes/syc-20352178
[3] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021, February 11). Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/pulmonary-arterial-hypertension
[4] American Lung Association. (2021, May 24). Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/lung-disease/pulmonary-arterial-hypertension/
[5] British Lung Foundation. (2021, March 23). Pulmonary arterial hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/lung-conditions/pulmonary-arterial-hypertension
[6] American Heart Association. (2021, February 23). Pulmonary Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pulmonary-hypertension
[7] Food and Drug Administration. (2021, March 18). Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/pulmonary-arterial-hypertension
[8] Cleveland Clinic. (2021, March 25). Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16662-pulmonary-arterial-hypertension
[9] Pulmonary Hypertension Association. (n.d.). Prognosis and Survival. Retrieved from https://www.phassociation.org/Understanding-PAH/Prognosis-and-Survival
- The cardiovascular system, particularly the heart and pulmonary system, plays a significant role in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), a serious disease causing high blood pressure within the lungs' arteries.
- Certain medical conditions and exposures, such as heart diseases, tumors, and connective tissue autoimmune diseases, can contribute to the development of PAH.
- The diagnosis of PAH involves a medical procedure called right heart catheterization, which measures blood flow in the pulmonary artery, and is crucial for getting an accurate diagnosis, as symptoms are similar to other heart conditions.
- Treatment for PAH includes FDA-approved drugs like prostaglandins, endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, vasodilators, riociguat (Adempas), and selexipag (Uptravi), as well as oxygen therapy or organ transplant in some cases.
- Adopting a health-and-wellness lifestyle, including quitting smoking, consuming a heart-healthy diet, reaching or maintaining a moderate weight, staying active, and avoiding heavy lifting or activities that cause strain, may help improve symptoms of PAH.
