What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
(dyspnea) is the main symptom of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). If you
have PAH, you may feel that it is difficult to get enough air.
Other Common Signs and Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Fainting spells (syncope)
- Swelling in the ankles or legs (edema)
- Bluish lips and skin (cyanosis)
- Chest pain
- Racing pulse
- Palpitations (a strong feeling of a fast
heartbeat)
As the disease advances:
- The pumping action of your heart grows
weaker.
- Your energy decreases.
In the more advanced stages, you:
- Are able to perform very little activity
- Have symptoms even when resting
- May become completely bedridden
Limitations on Physical Activity
Doctors may classify your symptoms based on how much
activity you can comfortably undertake. The classes are the same as those for
heart
failure. They are:
- Class 1: No limitsOrdinary physical
activity does not cause undue tiredness or shortness of breath.
- Class 2: Slight or mild limitsPerson is
comfortable at rest, but ordinary physical activity results in tiredness or
shortness of breath.
- Class 3: Marked or noticeable limitsPerson
is comfortable at rest, but less than ordinary physical activity causes
tiredness or shortness of breath.
- Class 4: Severe limitsPerson is unable to
carry on any physical activity without discomfort. Symptoms may also be present
at rest. If any physical activity is undertaken, discomfort increases.
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