When the pulmonary arteries that flow from the heart to the lungs become constricted and narrow, it increases blood pressure. This rare form of high blood pressure is known as pulmonary arterial hypertension or PAH. The condition may not be easy to detect, making it vital to know the signs and symptoms of PAH.

Delayed signs and symptoms of PAH
It could be years before any  signs and symptoms of PAH  become noticeable. This is because the narrowing of arteries tends to be a gradual process. The condition’s signs may also be misdiagnosed since they are quite common to other health conditions.

1. Shortness of breath
This is one of the first or initial signs and symptoms of PAH that is most often ignored. For example, you might be out of breath after climbing a few sets of stairs even if you are physically active. Healthy lung arteries and blood vessels are essential for proper respiration. They help to bring in air rich in oxygen and expel air that contains carbon dioxide. However, due to the narrowing of the arteries, breathing can become labored or difficult. Hence, even simple tasks such as climbing stairs, cleaning the home. or walking can make you feel breathless.

2. Dizziness and fainting
If your lungs don’t get enough blood, they cannot function properly and, hence, your brain too will not get enough oxygen. This gas is essential for the human body to function. Without oxygen, your thought process could slow down. Your risk of fainting or feeling dizzy could also increase due to oxygen deficiency the brain.

3. Fatigue
This lack of oxygen will also affect the functioning of other parts of the body. For example, your legs might tire even after a short walk or you will get easily tired and fatigued after doing only a small amount of work.

4. Swelling
Edema or swelling in the ankles, feet, and legs could occur due to PAH. This is because the kidneys are not able to function properly, which results in fluid retention.

5. Bluish tinge of the skin and lips
The heart pumps oxygen-rich red blood cells (RBCs) throughout the body to enable it to function properly. When there is insufficient oxygen in the RBCs caused by PAH, the skin and lips can turn a bluish color. This is known as cyanosis.

6. Chest pain and irregular heartbeat
The increased pressure in the heart caused due to PAH causes the muscles of this organ to work harder. With time, this leads to weak muscles, resulting in heart palpitations, a racing pulse, and erratic or irregular heartbeat. The increased pressure could also cause chest pain.

It should be noted that the symptoms of PAH vary among people. The severity of symptoms would also differ. However, if these indicators of PAH are ignored, the condition is likely to progress and could even become fatal.