Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a serious condition that causes blockage in the arteries in the lungs. This, consequently, increases the blood pressure in them. Due to this blockage, the heart is forced to work harder to pump blood, which can result in the weakening of your heart muscles too. The condition can be fatal if not diagnosed in time and one must consult a medical professional immediately if they suspect its development. This article covers the symptoms and causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Read on to know more about the condition.

Causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)

• Blood clots in the lungs
  A very common cause of PAH is the presence of blood clots in the lungs. The body creates clots to prevent excessive bleeding and sometimes, these can form without there being any reason. These clots dislodge and attach themselves to the lungs, resulting in increased blood pressure in the organ.
• HIV
  Another probable cause of this condition is HIV. HIV infections increase your risk of different kinds of lung diseases and PAH is one of them. Controlling the infection with medication, along with treating PAH simultaneously will have a positive impact on the quality of life of the patient.
• Birth heart defects
  Some people are born with heart defects that block or damage the artery that goes to the lungs. This has to be surgically treated and if that is not an option, it can also be managed with medication.

Symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)

• Dizziness
  One of the most common warning signs of the condition is dizziness. Due to the narrowed or blocked arteries, the lungs and heart have to work overtime to pump blood into the former and this causes fatigue and dizziness. Many patients with this condition could have had one or more fainting spells.
• Shortness of breath
  Another very common warning sign that must be included in this list of symptoms of PAH is shortness of breath. The lungs control the breathing pattern and when they do not get enough oxygen from the blood, they start malfunctioning. The result is the inability to take deep breaths and the patient will often gasp for breath. Initially, the individual will suffer from shortness of breath while walking or moving but as the condition progresses, this will occur even while at rest.
• Swelling of ankles and legs
  People with PAH face fluid retention in the body and this can cause swelling in some parts, especially around the ankles and the legs. This symptom can hinder people from doing everyday tasks and needs to be treated right away.

It is important to remember all these symptoms and causes of the condition as being informed will help manage it easily. People with PAH can definitely lead a healthy and long life by following certain lifestyle restrictions and adhering to medication and suggestions given by the doctor.