Pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which carry blood from the heart to the lungs to pick up oxygen.
These arteries can become narrow and blocked or damaged reducing blood flow.
This puts a strain on the heart because it has to work harder to try and force blood through.
Consequently pressure builds up in the narrowed arteries, which results in high blood pressure.
There are many factors that can cause pulmonary hypertension with symptoms that include:
- chest pain or pressure
- dizziness
- fatigue
- rapid heartbeat
- shortness of breath with or without any activity