end stage pulmonary hypertension what to expect

Patients with end-stage pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) may undergo a range of physical and quality of life alterations. Typically, as the disease advances, individuals may develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fatigue, chest pain, and fainting.

Initially, mild symptoms like exertional dyspnea and fatigue can impact a patient’s ability to perform daily activities, including climbing stairs or engaging in light household chores. As the condition deteriorates, dyspnea may occur even at rest. Next, moderate symptoms include chest pain and palpitations, potentially due to the heart’s excessive effort to compensate for elevated pulmonary arterial pressure. Severe symptoms, such as syncope and leg edema, signal significant heart dysfunction, which can result in fluid retention within the body.

For individuals with end-stage PAH, it is crucial to minimize physical exertion in daily life, maintain a positive mental state, and monitor the disease’s progression regularly. Adherence to medical treatment is mandatory; self-adjustment of medication dosage or discontinuation is not advised. Patients should also be vigilant about any changes in their condition and seek medical attention promptly if they experience discomfort.