Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a serious condition that often goes unnoticed until it becomes life-threatening. Though it affects both men and women, studies show that women are more likely to develop certain types of pulmonary hypertension, particularly Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). At Just4WomenAfrica.com, we’re committed to educating women about health conditions that may not be talked about enough — and PH is one of them.
What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary Hypertension is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. These are the vessels that carry blood from your heart to your lungs. When they become narrow or blocked, your heart has to work harder to push blood through them. Over time, this extra strain weakens the heart and can lead to heart failure.
Normal pulmonary artery pressure is around 8–20 mmHg at rest. Pulmonary Hypertension is diagnosed when this pressure is consistently over 25 mmHg at rest.
Types of Pulmonary Hypertension
There are five groups of PH, classified by their causes:
- Group 1: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) – Often idiopathic (unknown cause) or genetic; also linked to autoimmune diseases like lupus or scleroderma.
- Group 2: PH caused by left heart disease – The most common type.
- Group 3: PH due to lung diseases – Such as COPD or sleep apnea.
- Group 4: Chronic thromboembolic PH – Caused by blood clots in the lungs.
- Group 5: PH with unclear or multifactorial mechanisms – Including conditions like sarcoidosis or metabolic disorders.
Why Women Need to Pay Attention
- Around 80% of idiopathic PAH patients are women.
- Pregnancy in women with PH can be life-threatening, with maternal mortality rates as high as 30-50% if unmanaged.
- Women with autoimmune disorders such as lupus or scleroderma, which are more common in females, are at increased risk.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
The early symptoms are often mild and mistaken for fatigue or anxiety. As the disease progresses, they worsen:
- Shortness of breath (especially during activity)
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain or pressure
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- A racing heartbeat
Diagnosis
PH is difficult to diagnose because symptoms mimic many other conditions. It typically requires:
- Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
- Right heart catheterization (gold standard test)
- Pulmonary function tests
- Blood tests and imaging like CT scans
Treatment Options
While there’s no cure for PH, it can be managed with:
- Medications: Vasodilators, anticoagulants, diuretics, oxygen therapy, and more
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding smoking, reducing salt intake, and managing weight
- Surgery: Lung or heart-lung transplant in severe cases
In 2024, the global market for PH treatment was valued at over $7.2 billion, reflecting the growing recognition and need for targeted therapies.
Living with Pulmonary Hypertension
Many women with PH lead full and meaningful lives with the right treatment plan. Support groups, mental health care, and regular follow-up with a cardiologist or pulmonologist are essential.
Final Thoughts
Pulmonary Hypertension is not just a condition for older people or those with heart issues. It’s a critical health issue for women, especially those with autoimmune diseases or unexplained fatigue and shortness of breath. Early diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death.
If you or someone you know is showing signs of PH, don’t delay — consult a doctor immediately.
At Just4WomenAfrica.com, we believe knowledge is power. Let’s keep spreading awareness, because your lungs matter, your heart matters, YOU matter.
Sources:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Pulmonary Hypertension Association
- Mayo Clinic
- Journal of the American College of Cardiology
