Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is an increase in pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. This added effort forces the heart to work harder to pump blood and, over time, can affect its function.

Features that characterize it:

• Specifically affects circulation between the heart and the lungs
• Usually develops progressively
• Its symptoms can be confused with other causes of fatigue

Signs that may appear:

• Shortness of breath with exertion
• Fatigue and getting tired easily
• Dizziness or a sensation of palpitations

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist is the one who studies diseases of the lung and its circulation; the general practitioner guides the first visit. If you have shortness of breath that does not improve, it's a good idea to have it checked by a health professional.