Screening
and Diagnosis
Learn more about the causes of PAH and how it differs from a PH diagnosis
PH
Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a broad term that refers to high blood pressure in the arteries in the lungs.
This condition can stem from various factors, ranging from left-sided heart disease to chronic lung conditions.
PAH
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a specific type of PH in which the pulmonary arteries become stiff and thick leading to narrowed arteries, reduced blood flow, and higher pressure in the arteries of your lungs.
As a result, the right side of the heart must work harder, which can, over time weaken the muscles in your heart and enlarge its right side.
What Causes PAH?
There are several causes of PAH that have been identified, including connective tissue disease (CTD), congenital heart defects (CHD), liver disease, and other health conditions. When the cause is unknown, as is most common, the disease is referred to as idiopathic PAH.
It's also possible for gene mutations that cause PAH to be passed down, which is known as heritable PAH. Certain medicines and narcotics have also been found to cause the disease.
Connective Tissue Disease and
Congenital Heart Defects
Learn more about two conditions that are known to cause PAH
Connective Tissue Disease (CTD) is a term used to refer to different diseases that are characterized by the inflammation of connective tissue. Connective tissues include tendons, ligaments, skin, cartilage, bone, and blood vessels. This is the second most common cause of PAH.
Congenital heart defects (CHD) are issues with the heart that occur in the womb. The complications of CHDs vary significantly, and may cause PAH.
How PAH Is Diagnosed
Its symptoms often resemble those of other heart and lung conditions, so doctors typically eliminate the possibility of these other diseases when evaluating for PAH.
Right heart catheterization is needed for a conclusive diagnosis.
