Pulmonary Hypertension is a serious condition where the arteries in the lungs get blocked or narrow. Thus, this condition makes it difficult for the blood to flow through the lungs, thereby making the heart work harder to pump blood through these arteries.Eventually, the heart muscles get weak and it can lead to heart failure.   However, the good news is that the right treatment can help control these symptoms and thereby improve the health of the heart.Symptoms While in the initial stages, this condition may not show any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition worsens, the symptoms become more obvious and severe.Some common symptoms include:

• Heart palpitations or a racing pulse rate
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath while doing strenuous activities and even while resting
• Chest pain
• Bluish colour on the lips or skin
• Swelling of the ankles, legs and in the later stages of the abdomen

CausesMany doctors haven’t been able to attribute the true cause of this high blood pressure in the lungs. Some suggest that even our genes play a crucial role in contracting this condition. Many doctors have also found that other bodily conditions can cause this problem.Some of these are:

• Diseases of the liver such as Liver Cirrhosis
• Sleep apnea
• Lung ailments such as Pulmonary Fibrosis, Chronic Bronchitis etc.
• Blood clots in the lungs
• HIV
• A heart defect from birth

Also Read: Minoxidil for Hair Growth: A Research-Based Guide to Results and UsageRisk FactorsLike all the other types of Hypertension, there are also some factors that elevate this problem include:

• Overweight
• Hereditary
• Consumption of appetite-suppressant medication

Diagnosis and TreatmentSince this condition varies from person to person, the treatment is also customized to suit individual patient’s needs.Most patients suffering from this condition are also advised to improve their breathing. Oxygen therapy is thus suggested where you breathe pure oxygen through prongs that fit your nose. This therapy helps when you have low oxygen levels in your blood.If you are at risk of developing blood clots, doctors will recommend blood thinners.Suggested Practices for Improvement

• First and foremost, stay active.
• Go for regular walks so that you can breathe better.
• Practice regular exercise to combat high BP problems.
• Give yourself adequate rest and a good night’s sleep. These patients tend to get tired fast, so regular periods of rest and rejuvenation are essential
• Consume a healthy diet – Fruits, vegetable, wholesome grains, try to include them all in your daily intake

Also Read:  4 Foods to Avoid If You Have High BPDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.