Pulmonary Hypertension, Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary Hypertension is a specific type of high blood pressure.  Pulmonary Hypertension only occurs in the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.  Pulmonary Hypertension is a progressive condition that leads to heart failure.  The symptoms of pulmonary hypertension-- shortness of breath, fatigue, and fainting, may be reduced with oxygen therapy and medications.  Surgery, lung transplant, or heart-lung transplant may be necessary in severe cases.

Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism is a blocked artery in the lung.  Blood clots and fat clots most frequently cause the blocked arteries. Blood clots that develop in another part of the body, such as the legs, and travel to the lungs are a common cause. Such blood clots in the lungs can develop in healthy people after inactivity, such as sitting on a plane flight or confined bed rest.  Pulmonary embolism can lead to pulmonary hypertension.  Pulmonary embolisms can be life-threatening.  You should seek emergency medical attention if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or cough that produces blood.  Blood clots in the lungs are treated with medications or surgery.  A vein filter may be placed in the vein that leads to the heart to help prevent clots from entering the lungs.