11th May 2025

Background

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition of increased vascular resistance within the pulmonary arteries and is defined by a mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) > 20mmHg at rest. It can be split into primary pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) or secondary pulmonary hypertension. Symptoms are non-specific and include breathlessness and fatigue on exertion. Ultimately, right heart failure will manifest in affected patient groups and left untreated carries a median survival of 2.8 years. Whilst there is no cure, management can improve symptoms, reduce morbidity and prolong survival, making early recognition and management key.