Neurological disorder and Neuroimmunology

Pulmonary hypertension

Track 10: Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is the increase of blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, vein, or capillaries due to the narrowing of arteries and capillaries to and within the lungs, which leads to shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, leg swelling and other symptoms. Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension do not usually occur until the condition has progressed. The first symptom of pulmonary hypertension is usually shortness of breath with everyday activities, such as climbing stairs. Fatigue, dizziness, and fainting spells also can be symptoms. The molecular mechanism of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is not known clearly. The endothelial dysfunction decreases the synthesis of endothelium-derived vasodilators such as nitric oxide and prostacyclin. Diagnosis of the severe heart condition includes mainly Echocardiography or as per the signs and symptoms of the particular disease condition. Treatment for pulmonary hypertension will not cure the condition but improve the quality of life.