Pulmonary Hypertension: Symptoms

Reviewed by Marjorie Patricia George, MD

View InfopgrahicHealthy pulmonary arteries of the lungs are elastic. They expand and contract with each beat of the heart. In pulmonary hypertension, arteries stiffen and thicken. This leads to increased resistance to blood passing through the vessel, thereby increasing pressure. Higher pulmonary pressure can lead to symptoms of pulmonary hypertension. These symptoms can involve the heart.

View Do I Have High Blood Pressure in My Lungs Infographic

 

Common symptoms of pulmonary hypertension may include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially with exertion

  • Fatigue

  • Low oxygen levels

  • Chest pain or pressure

  • Near-fainting/fainting

  • Palpitations

  • Swelling of the ankles or abdomen

  • Heart failure (in advanced cases).

 

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