Understanding Pulmonary Hypertension: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

November is Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) Awareness Month — and Lung Cancer Awareness Month — making it an important time to highlight a condition that affects thousands of people each year. At StatCare, our pulmonary specialists are dedicated to raising awareness, supporting early diagnosis, and providing advanced, evidence-based treatment for patients living with PH.

StatCare is nationally recognized as a Pulmonary Hypertension Center of Excellence, with dedicated teams in Johnson City and Chattanooga focused exclusively on the management and treatment of PH. If you or a loved one may be affected by pulmonary hypertension, read on to learn about symptoms, causes, and the treatment options available through our expert team.

What is pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. Unlike systemic high blood pressure, PH specifically affects the pulmonary arteries, causing them to narrow, stiffen, or become damaged. Over time, this increased pressure forces the right side of the heart to work harder, which can lead to right heart enlargement and heart failure if untreated.

PH may develop on its own or as a result of other medical conditions affecting the heart, lungs, or other organs. Because early symptoms are often mild, timely evaluation by a specialist is critical for improving outcomes.

Symptoms to watch for

Early PH symptoms can resemble other common heart or lung conditions. Seek evaluation if you notice persistent or worsening signs, including:

• Shortness of breath, especially during activity
• Fatigue or reduced stamina
• Chest discomfort or pressure
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen
• Heart palpitations

Prompt recognition of these signs and early intervention by a PH specialist can help maintain quality of life.

What causes pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension is not a single disease, but a group of conditions classified by underlying cause. Common contributors include:

• Left heart disease (e.g., heart failure, valve disease)
• Chronic lung diseases such as COPD, interstitial lung disease, or sleep apnea
• Chronic blood clots in the lungs (chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, CTEPH)
• Connective tissue disorders
• Liver disease
• Certain congenital heart defects

In some cases, PH develops without an identifiable cause, known as idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). Identifying the root cause is essential for creating a personalized treatment plan.

How pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed

A thorough evaluation is necessary for accurate diagnosis. At StatCare, our PH Center of Excellence uses advanced diagnostic tools, which may include:

• Echocardiography
• Pulmonary function tests
• Blood tests
• CT imaging
• Right heart catheterization (the gold standard for confirming PH)

Early diagnosis helps determine disease severity, identify underlying causes, and guide individualized care.

Treatment options

While PH is a chronic condition, treatments can help slow its progression, improve symptoms, and enhance quality of life. Management strategies may include:

• Medications to relax and dilate the pulmonary arteries
• Lifestyle modifications such as tailored exercise and dietary guidance
• Treatment of underlying heart or lung conditions
• Regular follow-up and specialized care at our PH-focused centers
  

Ongoing monitoring by PH specialists — like those at our Johnson City and Chattanooga locations — is critical for optimal outcomes.

If you are experiencing symptoms of pulmonary hypertension or have been referred for evaluation, StatCare is here to provide expert care. To learn more about our PH program or schedule an appointment, contact StatCare or book online today.