Learn About Pulmonary Hypertension

Understanding pulmonary hypertension (PH) is an important first step in feeling more confident and in control of your health. Whether you are newly diagnosed, exploring symptoms, or supporting someone you love, this section will help you learn the essentials in clear, simple language.

Here, you’ll find information about what PH is, the symptoms to look for, how PH is diagnosed, and what treatment options may look like. Each page is designed to help patients and caregivers navigate PH with greater clarity, confidence, and hope.

What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition in which the pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs is too high. This increased pressure forces the right side of the heart to work harder than it should to pump blood. PH can occur for many different reasons, which is why getting an accurate diagnosis from a PH expert is so important.

On this page, you’ll learn the basics of how PH affects the heart and lungs, common symptoms, and the five expert-defined groups (types) of PH that guide diagnosis and treatment.

START LEARNING ABOUT PH

Symptoms & Warning Signs

PH symptoms can be subtle at first. At the beginning, some people may assume they are “just out of shape” or tired from everyday life.

Common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Dizziness or fainting
Swelling in the legs or abdomen
Chest pressure or discomfort

LEARN ABOUT PH SYMPTOMS

How PH Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing PH requires a series of tests that evaluate how the heart and lungs are functioning. These may include:

Echocardiogram
CT scan
Breathing (pulmonary function) tests
Bloodwork
A specialized procedure called a right heart catheterization — the only test that can confirm PH

Each test provides important information that helps PH specialists determine the correct type of PH and create the right treatment plan for you. This page walks you through the diagnostic process step-by-step so you know what to expect.

Learn About PH Diagnosis

Treatment Options

PH treatment often includes medications that help relax the blood vessels in the lungs, improve blood flow, and reduce strain on the heart. Your treatment plan will depend on the type of PH you have and your unique health needs.

Other supportive therapies—such as oxygen, nutrition guidance, appropriate physical activity, and sleep care—may also play important roles.

This page provides an overview of treatment options and explains how PH care teams tailor plans for each patient.

Learn About PH treatment

Recommended Featured Downloads

Highlight trusted educational resources that patients can download and bring to appointments:

What Is Pulmonary Hypertension? (PDF)
Testing for Pulmonary Hypertension (PDF)
You’ve Been Told You Have PH—What’s Next? (PDF)
Working With Your PH Specialist (PDF)
Working With Your PH Specialist on Forming a Treatment Plan (PDF)

Download PH Guides

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LiveLearnBreathePH.org provides clear, compassionate, evidence-based information for patients, families, and caregivers. This website is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as giving medical advice. Always talk with your PH care team for medical advice.

Translations on this website are created using an AI tool. Some wording may not be exact. If anything is unclear, please check with your health care provider or contact us.