PAH, or pulmonary arterial hypertension, is a kind of blood pressure that directly impacts the heart’s right side and the arteries in the lungs. It is a severe condition that hampers your quality of life. However, if a timely diagnosis is made, you can get the desired care as needed and ease your symptoms. The symptoms usually develop gradually, and many people do not see any symptoms for a long time. But what are the common signs and symptoms of PAH? Let us find out. 

1. Shortness of breath
Speaking of the earliest PAH symptoms, while PAH is in its early stage, you may experience breathlessness or shortness of breath. The blood vessels and the arteries, which transport the blood through and into the lungs, make breathing possible. The whole exhale and inhale routine is what can help you quickly breathe out the oxygen-depleted air and breathe in the oxygen-rich air. It is a choreographed routine and happens normally in the body. However, in someone with PAH, this routine may be restricted and feel labored. Consequently, the tasks that once felt easy, such as cleaning the house and climbing the stairs, will be difficult to perform, leaving you gasping for air quickly. 

2. Swelling in the limbs
One of the most prevalent PAH symptoms is the swelling or puffiness of the ankles, face, feet, and abdomen. This is because of abnormal fluid accumulation or edema within fascial tissues. 

3. Bluish discoloration
The heart pumps oxygen-infused red blood cells across the body. This provides the body with the energy to perform all the functions and activities you need. PAH may cause a shortage of oxygen in the RBCs. Consequently, several parts of the body may not receive adequate oxygen as required. The low oxygen levels in the lips or the skin can result in a bluish appearance. This is one of the signs and symptoms of PAH in the advanced stages. It is known as cyanosis. 

4. Heart failure
In some advanced PAH cases, the right heart ventricle grows abnormally in size. This is known as hypertrophy. It may lead to reduced functioning of the heart’s right portion, which can advance to a heart failure. 

5. Chest pains and irregular heartbeat
PAH causes increased pressure on the heart. This can weaken the heart’s muscles and force them to work harder than they usually do. When the heart is weak, it cannot function as optimally as it is supposed to. This might lead to heart palpations, a racing pulse, and an erratic heartbeat. Increased pressure on the arteries and the heart might also result in chest pain or pressure. 

6. Dizziness and fatigue
When the lungs do not get adequate blood to function well, the brain and the body see a shortage of oxygen. Oxygen is required by the body to perform all its tasks. Without adequate oxygen, you may be unable to complete your routine activities. So, even after a short walk, your legs may feel tired. It also impacts your thought processing and slows down the brain. Typically, leaving you to feel more tired and drained and aggravating your risk of fainting or dizziness.