Medical Encyclopedia
Primary pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is the narrowing of the pulmonary arterioles within the lung. The narrowing of the arteries creates resistance and an increased work load for the heart. The heart becomes enlarged from pumping blood against the resistance. Some symptoms include chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The goal of treatment is control of the symptoms, although the disease usually develops into congestive heart failure.
Update Date: 1/5/2007
Updated by: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team
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