Pulmonary arterial hypertension
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disease of the heart and lungs that is characterized by an increase in blood pressure within the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein, or pulmonary capillaries. Pronounced as /pʌlˈmɒnəri ɑːrˈtɪəriəl haɪpərˈtɛnʃən/.
Etymology
The term "pulmonary" is derived from the Latin pulmonarius (pertaining to the lungs), "arterial" from the Greek arteria (windpipe, artery), and "hypertension" from the Greek hyper (over, above) and tension from the Latin tensio (a stretching).
Symptoms
Common symptoms of PAH include shortness of breath, fatigue, syncope, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can lead to right heart failure.
Causes
PAH can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, drug and toxin exposure, connective tissue disease, HIV infection, liver disease, and congenital heart disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of PAH typically involves a series of tests, including echocardiography, right heart catheterization, and pulmonary function tests.
Treatment
Treatment for PAH often involves medications to lower blood pressure in the lungs, such as endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, and prostacyclin analogues. In severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with PAH varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's overall health. However, with proper treatment and management, many individuals with PAH can lead active and productive lives.
See Also
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