Living with PAH: Coping on a Day-to-Day Basis

 

Get tips for living and coping with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Written by Stephanie Pierce Medically Reviewed on 27 de Fevereiro de 2014 by George Krucik, MD, MBA

What Is PAH?

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare but serious condition that causes the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs to become too high. Blood pressure rises due to the constriction of the pulmonary arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry blood to the lungs (where the blood picks up oxygen). Narrowed arteries also mean the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the lungs. Over time, the heart muscle can weaken, leading to heart failure.

Symptoms of PAH

The symptoms of PAH are similar to those of other heart and lung conditions, and often include:

• shortness of breath
• dizziness/fainting
• weakness
• fatigue
• racing pulse or heart palpitations 

Symptoms usually get continually worse as the disease progresses, though many are treatable.

Treatments

Treatment for PAH generally involves managing and treating its symptoms, as there is no known cure for the disorder. Treatment options include both medical interventions and lifestyle changes. The most suitable forms of treatment usually depend on the type and severity of your PAH.

Medical Treatments

Certain medications can be helpful in the treatment of PAH, depending on the cause of the condition (if the cause is even known):

• Blood thinners like warfarin can help to prevent clotting, keeping blood flowing as smoothly as possible.
• Diuretics work by eliminating excess fluid from your body, including any fluid accumulating in the lungs and lower extremities.
• Blood pressure medications, like calcium channel blockers, may be appropriate for some types of PAH.
• Endothelin receptor agonists (ERAs) work to prevent further narrowing of the arteries.
• Inhalers and prostacyclins, help treat and prevent shortness of breath.