What is Primary Pulmonary Hypertension?
Primary pulmonary hypertension is a progressive disorder characterized by abnormally high blood pressure (hypertension) that affects arteries in the lungs (pulmonary arteries). Hypertension is caused by the narrowing (obstruction) of very small arteries throughout the lungs. Primary means that the condition is not caused by other diseases of the heart or lungs. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) and fatigue are the most common symptoms of primary pulmonary hypertension. People with this disorder may experience additional symptoms, particularly as the condition worsens. Other symptoms include dizziness, fainting spells, swelling (edema) of the ankles or legs, chest pain, and a racing pulse.
