Pulmonary hypertension in focus…
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is defined as an excessive increase in pressure in the pulmonary arteries. The disease has many causes, but it always results in the heart having to work harder to overcome resistance to blood flow, which can lead to heart failure and be life-threatening.
…and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) belongs to the group of PH. This is a rare and serious disease. corresponding to a specific vascular lesion of the lungs, in which the wall of small arteries grows, which gradually clogs them “explains Professor Marc Humbert, Head of the Department of Pulmonology and Intensive Care of Respiratory Diseases at Bicêtre Hospital.
The disease manifests itself with nonspecific symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. ” There may be diagnostic bias on the part of the patient, as the symptoms of PAH may be associated with other, more mundane causes. » That’s why it’s important to consult with your doctor so you can be referred to the right specialist for a diagnosis.
How to live with PAH?
Maggie Surace is the President of the HTaPFrance Association. ” This disease, which causes shortness of breath and significant fatigue, significantly impairs the quality of life of patients. They face significant emotional and physical burden, especially due to social isolation and lack of awareness about the disease. »
Which imposes a new way of life every day. ” You can’t do the same things you did before. Simply walking up stairs can be difficult, as can simple activities like cleaning and getting dressed. »
She also highlights the social consequences of the disease. ” We very often see a deterioration in professional and social connections. Isolation is a serious problem. Additionally, a family’s lack of awareness of the disease can exacerbate this feeling of isolation, with the risk of stigmatization associated with this invisible disability, whereby patients may be misunderstood or even accused of faking their illness. Which can ultimately lead to depressive disorders. »
” Fortunately, treatment has advanced in recent years. “,” Maggie Surace clarifies. ” Subject to diagnosis as early as possible and observation by a pathology specialist. In our country there is a powerful network of expert centers, called PulmoTension, in the RespiFIL health sector for rare respiratory diseases. »
Progress in treatment confirmed by Professor Marc Humbert” Detailed analysis of the mechanisms of contraction, dilation and remodeling of the pulmonary arteries has significantly advanced research. “, explains Professor Mark Humbert. ” Today we are moving towards new classes of drugs, sources of hope for patients.. »
Unexplained Shortness of Breath Awareness Campaign
On the occasion of World PH Day, MSD Laboratory is launching an awareness campaign. It draws on the Cannes Film Festival, a major event that also takes place in May, and touches on the theme of climbing stairs.
This can symbolize a lifelong dream or, conversely, resemble a nightmare for patients suffering from PH. ” Shortness of breath does not work at the slightest effort; this is perhaps the first symptom of pulmonary hypertension. » This campaign, created in collaboration with the HTaPFrance association, will be presented in the print press, on social networks, as well as in hospital centers.
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