Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries present in the lungs and the right part of the heart. PAH  can block blood vessels in the lungs, slowing down the flow of blood and increasing the blood pressure in the arteries. This forces the to begin pumping harder, weakening its muscles.

There are ways to identify PAH via its warning signs and symptoms. Read on to know the warning signs and symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

1. Fatigue and light-headedness
If a person feels physically and mentally tired, then it can be defined as fatigue. They may feel lightheaded when doing any physical work. If they experience fatigue and light-headedness, then it can be a warning sign and symptom of PAH. They may feel dizzy and unsteady to focus on the task at hand.

2. Shortness of breath
This condition is explained as a frightening sensation when a person cannot breathe normally, leading to suffocation. The medical term for severe shortness of breath is dyspnea. Many people who are out of shape usually experience shortness of breath. But if this condition happens frequently, then it can be a sign of a severe illness like pulmonary arterial hypertension.

3. Chest pains
Low blood flow to the heart muscles can cause chest pain, which can be a symptom of PAH. Chest pains are also known as angina. Physical activity can trigger pain in the chest.

4. Racing heartbeat
A racing heartbeat, also called palpitations, is a condition where a person can feel fluttering, irregular beating sensations for a few seconds or more. If it suddenly becomes more noticeable, then it may be a symptom of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

5. Swelling in hands, legs, and ankles
The swelling in the hands, legs, and ankles can occur due to fluid build-up. Various reasons can cause it, but it is also one of the warning signs and symptoms of PAH.

6. Dry cough with blood
Blood during coughing is one of the signs of PAH. It may not look serious at first. But persistent coughing with blood can be a warning sign of PAH.

7. Fainting
Passing out from tiredness and dizziness is one of the indicators of pulmonary arterial hypertension. If it frequently happens to a person, they should consult the doctor and check for PAH.

8. Fingers and lips changing to blue
Fingers and lips turn blue if blood and oxygen are not circulating in the body. This is a severe warning sign of PAH.

You may have pulmonary arterial hypertension but only realize it too late. Knowing these early symptoms will help you diagnose PAH early and get the necessary treatment.