Primary pulmonary hypertension is a rare form of high blood pressure in the lungs. Once there is elevated blood pressure in the lungs, the right lower heart chamber strains to drive blood to the lungs.
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This leads to the thickening and increased strength of the heart muscle. As the disease progresses, the right ventricle could not get stronger and symptoms start to manifest since the blood could not acquire enough oxygen from the lungs.
What are the causes?
The small blood vessels in the lungs thicken and become stiff. Remember that high pressure is necessary to drive blood via the thick and stiff blood vessels.
The condition is likely to affect young and middle-aged women and tends to run in families.
What are the signs?
- Shortness of breath during exertion since the right ventricle could not force enough blood via the lungs
- Chest pain
- Fainting especially during exercise
Take note that these symptoms might worsen over time.
Management of primary pulmonary hypertension
The doctor will determine the suitable treatment for the individual.
- In some cases, calcium antagonists are given which work by improving the symptoms by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs and improve the flow of blood.
- Blood thinners might be given to prevent the formation of small blood clots that can block the blood flow via the lungs.
- Prostacyclin which is a naturally-occurring hormone in the body can be administered via a vein using a specialized pump.
- In some cases, a heart-lung transplant might be an option.