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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Symptoms and Clinical Manifestations
Introduction
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive condition that affects the arteries carrying blood from the heart to the lungs. This condition leads to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. If left untreated, PAH can lead to heart failure and other complications.
Symptoms of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
PAH symptoms develop gradually and may initially be mistaken for other conditions. The most common symptoms include:
1. Shortness of breath (Dyspnea)
- Typically worsens with physical activity
- Can occur even at rest in advanced stages
2. Fatigue and Weakness
- A result of inadequate oxygen supply to the body
- May lead to reduced physical endurance
3. Chest Pain or Pressure (Angina-like symptoms)
- Due to increased strain on the right side of the heart
4. Dizziness or Fainting (Syncope)
- Occurs when the heart fails to circulate enough blood to the brain
5. Swelling (Edema) in the Legs, Ankles, or Abdomen
- Caused by fluid retention due to right heart failure
6. Heart Palpitations or Irregular Heartbeat
- Can indicate strain on the heart caused by high pulmonary artery pressure
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent shortness of breath, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue, it’s important to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and management can help slow the progression of PAH and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a serious medical condition that requires early diagnosis and management. Awareness of symptoms helps in timely intervention, which can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Source recommendations
1. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines on Pulmonary Hypertension
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Pulmonary-Hypertension-Guidelines-on-Diagnosis-and-Treatment-of
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/38/3618/6673929
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2022/08/30/19/11/2022-ESC-Guidelines-for-Pulmonary-Hypertension-ESC-2022
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017548/
- https://publications.ersnet.org/content/erj/early/2022/08/25/1399300300879-2022.abstract
2. American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2022/08/30/19/11/2022-ESC-Guidelines-for-Pulmonary-Hypertension-ESC-2022
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001063
- https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2015/09/15/15/19/2015-esc-ers-guidelines-for-the-diagnosis-and-treatment-of-ph
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.03.393
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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