What is pulmonary hypertension?Pulmonary hypertension is a condition when arteries in the lungs narrow or get blocked entirely. The blood pressure simply gets higher within the artery wall due to the increased resistance. Your heart muscle has to work harder and may eventually wear down or even stop completely. Detecting this condition may be difficult as signs of pulmonary hypertension may not be readily apparent for some time. Approximately a thousand or so cases are reported every year. There is no cure for pulmonary hypertension and it will get worse if it is not treated. Although there are two types of pulmonary hypertension, primary and secondary, each displays similar charecteristics. Here are some signs to look for.
Instructions
Identify Signs of Pulmonary Hypertension
1. Troubled breathing. Troubled breathing is a significant indicator of pulmonary hypertension, but it does not mean you have it. You should look for parallel symptoms, as well like dizzinesss, fainting, chest pains or significant fatigue.
2. Skipping a beat. If your hearts races or skips a beat, try to sit down. It is natural for your heart rate to increase with activity, but it should not be racing if you are watching TV, for example. Your heart rate should not increase when you are at rest.
3. Note if your skin has turned blue. Blue skin or "cyanosis" is a very good sign that something is "wrong." Cyanosis is a condition when the blood is severely lacking in oxygen -- this is called "oxygen saturation." If the blood is not properly saturated with oxygen, your tissues may die. This includes the heart and other vital organs.
4. Watch for swelling. People who show signs of pulmonary hypertension often have swelling, or “edema” in their arms, legs or both. Some people have been known to have heart attacks right after significant swelling in their extremities.
5. Be informed. You should know your medical history regardless of whether you have signs of pulmonary hypertension. There are some genetic factors that will predispose you to certain illnesses. Ask your relatives, neighbors or other family friends about your family background.
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