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Pulmonary Hypertension Overview and Management

Understand pulmonary hypertension, its causes, symptoms, and stages. Learn about available treatment options, lifestyle changes, and management strategies to improve quality of life.

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Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima

Reviewed by Dr. Siri Nallapu MBBS

Last updated on 25th Aug, 2025

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Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition that affects the blood vessels in your lungs, making it harder for your heart to pump blood effectively. While it may sound complicated, understanding PH can help you manage it better and improve your quality of life.

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension occurs when the blood pressure in the arteries of your lungs becomes abnormally high. This puts extra strain on your heart, especially the right side, which pumps blood to your lungs. Over time, this can weaken your heart and lead to serious complications if not managed properly.

Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension

PH symptoms can develop slowly, making them easy to overlook. Some common signs include:

  • Shortness of breath (especially during physical activity)
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Dizziness or fainting spells
  • Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen
  • Bluish lips or skin (in severe cases)

If you experience these symptoms, especially if they worsen over time, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Consult a Top Pulmonologist

Dr Abhishek Verma, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Abhishek Verma

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MD (Respiratory Medicine), PDCC (Interventional Pulmonology) Alumni SGPGIMS & KGMU Lucknow

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

recommendation

95%

(50+ Patients)

800

120 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

22 Years • MBBS, MD (Pul.), FCCP

Hyderguda

Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda

recommendation

92%

(75+ Patients)

1000

100 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K., Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

900

135 Cashback

900

No Booking Fees

Dr. Varun Rajpal, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. Varun Rajpal

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.

Noida

DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida

1250

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chaithanya R, Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

Dr. Chaithanya R

Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

1000

150 Cashback

What Causes Pulmonary Hypertension?

PH can develop due to various reasons, including:

1. Heart and Lung Diseases – Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, or left-sided heart disease can lead to PH.
2. Blood Clots in the Lungs – A history of pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs) can increase PH risk.
3. Connective Tissue Disorders – Diseases like scleroderma or lupus may contribute to PH.
4. Genetic Factors – In rare cases, PH can run in families.
5. Other Causes – Certain medications, liver disease, or sleep apnea may also play a role.

How Does PH Affect Your Health?

If left untreated, PH can lead to complications such as:

  • Right-sided heart failure (the heart struggles to pump blood effectively)
  • Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
  • Increased risk of blood clots
  • Reduced oxygen supply to organs
  • Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and improve daily life.

Managing Pulmonary Hypertension

While PH is a chronic condition, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help manage symptoms effectively.

Medical Treatments

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as:

  • Vasodilators – Help relax lung blood vessels.
  • Blood thinners – Reduce clot risk.
  • Diuretics – Help remove excess fluid from the body.
  • Oxygen therapy – If oxygen levels are low.

In severe cases, surgery (like a lung transplant) may be considered.

Lifestyle Tips for Better Management

Below are a few lifestyle tips for better management,
1. Stay Active (But Don’t Overexert) – Light exercises like walking or yoga can help, but avoid strenuous activities.
2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing salt intake.
3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol – Both can worsen PH symptoms.
4. Monitor Fluid Intake – Too much fluid can increase swelling.
5. Get Vaccinated – Flu and pneumonia vaccines help prevent infections that can strain your lungs.
6. Manage Stress – Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can help.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience worsening symptoms like:

  • Increased shortness of breath
  • Sudden weight gain (due to fluid retention)
  • Severe fatigue or fainting

Seek medical help immediately.

Take Control of Your Health

Living with PH can be challenging, but with the right care, you can lead a fulfilling life. If you suspect PH or need expert guidance, consider consulting a specialist.

Need help? You can book a consultation with a pulmonologist or cardiologist through Apollo 24|7 for personalized care and support.

Final Thoughts

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis, ongoing medical care, and lifestyle adjustments to manage effectively. With proper treatment and regular monitoring, many individuals can maintain a good quality of life and slow disease progression.

Consult a Top Pulmonologist

Dr Abhishek Verma, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Abhishek Verma

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MD (Respiratory Medicine), PDCC (Interventional Pulmonology) Alumni SGPGIMS & KGMU Lucknow

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

recommendation

95%

(50+ Patients)

800

120 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

22 Years • MBBS, MD (Pul.), FCCP

Hyderguda

Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda

recommendation

92%

(75+ Patients)

1000

100 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K., Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

900

135 Cashback

900

No Booking Fees

Dr. Varun Rajpal, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. Varun Rajpal

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.

Noida

DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida

1250

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chaithanya R, Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

Dr. Chaithanya R

Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

1000

150 Cashback

 

Consult a Top Pulmonologist

Dr Abhishek Verma, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Abhishek Verma

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MD (Respiratory Medicine), PDCC (Interventional Pulmonology) Alumni SGPGIMS & KGMU Lucknow

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

recommendation

95%

(50+ Patients)

800

120 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

22 Years • MBBS, MD (Pul.), FCCP

Hyderguda

Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda

recommendation

92%

(75+ Patients)

1000

100 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K., Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

900

135 Cashback

900

No Booking Fees

Dr. Varun Rajpal, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. Varun Rajpal

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.

Noida

DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida

1250

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chaithanya R, Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

Dr. Chaithanya R

Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

1000

150 Cashback

Consult a Top Pulmonologist

Dr Abhishek Verma, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Abhishek Verma

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MD (Respiratory Medicine), PDCC (Interventional Pulmonology) Alumni SGPGIMS & KGMU Lucknow

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

recommendation

95%

(50+ Patients)

800

120 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. S Mallikarjun Rao

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

22 Years • MBBS, MD (Pul.), FCCP

Hyderguda

Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda

recommendation

92%

(75+ Patients)

1000

100 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K., Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

900

135 Cashback

900

No Booking Fees

Dr. Varun Rajpal, Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Dr. Varun Rajpal

Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.

Noida

DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida

1250

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chaithanya R, Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

Dr. Chaithanya R

Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist

16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)

Bangalore

Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore

1000

150 Cashback