Pulmonary Hypertension: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to pulmonary hypertension, covering symptoms, diagnostic workup and treatment to manage this high blood pressure in the lungs.
Treatment usually begins with
Pulmonologist Assessment
Echocardiogram
Right Heart Catheterisation
Targeted Medical Therapy
Treatment is tailored to the specific type and cause of pulmonary hypertension identified during evaluation.
You may need this evaluated if...
A pulmonary hypertension evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Breathlessness that is out of proportion to other findings
- Fatigue with minimal exertion
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Dizziness or fainting episodes
Pulmonary hypertension is a manageable condition with modern targeted therapies, especially when diagnosed early.
What is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which makes the heart work harder and can cause progressive breathlessness and fatigue.
Multiple Underlying Causes
Can result from lung disease, heart conditions or occur on its own.
Often Underdiagnosed
Symptoms can be mistaken for other, more common conditions.
Needs Specialist Confirmation
Right heart catheterisation confirms the diagnosis and severity.
Targeted Treatments Available
Modern medications specifically target the underlying process.
Common Symptoms
- Breathlessness with exertion
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Chest discomfort
- Dizziness or fainting
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, environmental and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Echocardiogram
An initial screening test that estimates pressure in the lung arteries.
Right Heart Catheterisation
Directly and precisely measures pulmonary artery pressure to confirm diagnosis.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Assesses for an underlying lung condition.
CT Scan or Ventilation-Perfusion Scan
Checks for chronic blood clots as a cause.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Targeted medication to relax pulmonary blood vessels
- Oxygen therapy for low blood oxygen levels
- Treatment of the underlying cause where identified
- Diuretics for associated fluid retention
Procedural Care
Specialised procedures, including pulmonary thromboendarterectomy for select clot-related cases, are considered where appropriate.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, lung function and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Breathlessness out of proportion to activity
- Unexplained fatigue with swelling in the legs
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Fainting episodes
- Severe breathlessness at rest
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right pulmonologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right pulmonologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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