Pulmonary Hypertension and Chronic Heart Disease: Know the Link Between the Two

You may have heard about hypertension, which is a condition where your blood pressure remains elevated. However, a rare and more severe form of hypertension is pulmonary hypertension.

Pulmonary hypertension – What is it?

Pulmonary hypertension refers to a disease where the blood pressure in your pulmonary artery is higher than normal. The pulmonary arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to your lungs for purification. Apart from the high blood pressure in your lungs, pulmonary hypertension also causes narrowing and blockage of arteries.

With time, the disease progresses and may even become fatal. Even though there is no cure for the condition, doctors can help in managing it with medications.

Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension

Here is a look at some of the common symptoms of pulmonary hypertension –

• Fatigue

• Fainting spells

• Shortness of breath

• A bluish tinge of skin and lips

• Swelling in the legs and ankles

• Pain and stiffness in the chest

Doctors are yet to determine the exact cause of the disease. However, research shows that pulmonary hypertension is interconnected to heart disease and failure.

How are pulmonary hypertension and heart disease related?

Pulmonary hypertension causes mutations in the cell lining of the pulmonary arteries. These mutations block or narrow the arteries, restricting the proper flow of blood. As a result, the heart needs to pump more blood and work harder. This continuous stress causes enlargement and weakness in the right ventricle. Without proper treatment, this excessive stress can cause the failure of the right ventricle, leading to cardiac failure.

However, heart failure may also trigger pulmonary hypertension. According to a study, left-sided heart failure often leads to pulmonary hypertension. The World Health Organization lists left-sided heart failure as the most common reason for the development of pulmonary hypertension.

How to prevent pulmonary hypertension and its complications

Heart disease and pulmonary hypertension are very serious disorders and need to be prevented early. Following a healthy lifestyle is often the key to prevent both of these conditions. Here are some tips to follow –

• Limit excess fatty and fried foods

• Consume fresh fruits and vegetables daily

• Incorporate green leafy vegetables in your diet

• You must exercise regularly. Walking, running, cycling and swimming are just some exercises that you should do to stay healthy

• Limit stress in your life. Practice meditation to calm your mind and stay positive

Hypertension, in any form, will cause a number of problems to your body. However, pulmonary hypertension is the worst. Following the tips mentioned above should help you prevent this disorder and enjoy a long and healthy life.