Condition

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

High pressure in the lung arteries — a rare but serious condition that needs expert care.

Illustration of pulmonary arteries to the lungs — PAH puts pressure on the right side of the heart — but it can be treated.

What it is

PAH is high pressure inside the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. It strains the right side of the heart. Modern targeted medicines have dramatically improved outcomes — early diagnosis is the key.

Symptoms

Young woman pausing to catch her breath — Unexplained breathlessness in a young woman is the most common first sign.

Breathlessness on mild exertion
Fatigue
Chest pain
Fainting
Swelling of feet
Bluish lips on exertion

Risk factors

Connective tissue disease (scleroderma, lupus)
Congenital heart disease
HIV
Liver disease
Family history
Certain diet drugs

How it's diagnosed

Cathlab monitor showing pulmonary artery pressure — Only a right-heart catheter can confirm PAH for certain.

Echocardiogram (screening)
Right heart catheterisation (confirmatory)
Pulmonary function tests
CT chest, VQ scan

Treatment options

Cardiologist counselling a PAH patient in clinic — A dedicated PAH clinic gives you structured testing and the right drug combinations.

Endothelin receptor antagonists
PDE-5 inhibitors
Prostacyclin analogues
Diuretics, oxygen as needed
Specialised PAH clinic follow-up

Related procedures

Echocardiography (2D/3D)

A safe ultrasound test that shows your heart pumping in real time.

FAQ

Questions patients ask us most

Why does Dr. Nikhila run a dedicated PAH clinic?+

PAH is rare but complex. A dedicated clinic ensures proper testing, the right combination of advanced medicines, and structured follow-up.

Your Heart Deserves Senior Expertise.

Connect with the doctor's team directly — no forms, just a call.

WhatsApp Now Call Hospital

Available 24×7 for cardiac emergencies