Signs of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

Primary pulmonary hypertension is an uncommon but treatable disease that causes you to develop dangerously high pressure in the arteries that serve your lungs. You may not notice signs of primary pulmonary hypertension because they develop slowly and resemble symptoms of other diseases. According to the American Heart Association and the National Library of Medicine, signs of primary pulmonary hypertension include breathing problems and skin changes.

Tiredness

• Some of the first signs you may experience as a result of primary pulmonary hypertension are persistent physical tiredness and mental fatigue.

Difficulty Breathing

• Shortness of breath and pain when you breathe are signs of primary pulmonary hypertension that can occur even while you are resting.

Poor Circulation

• Dizziness, light-headedness and fainting are signs of primary pulmonary hypertension that can result from poor blood circulation.

Pain

• Pain in your chest, upper back and along the sides of your ribs, especially during or after exercise are signs of primary pulmonary hypertension.

Swelling

• Swelling in your face, hands, feet and ankles is a sign of primary pulmonary hypertension after you have had the disease for a long period of time.

Skin Changes

• Primary pulmonary hypertension may cause your lips, fingers and toes to turn a bluish color and the rest of your skin to become pale or appear bruised.