Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month

Signs, Symptoms and Support

November is Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) Awareness Month and this year we are raising awareness of the signs and symptoms associated with this disease and connecting people living with PH to information, resources and support.

Signs and Symptoms

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is caused by narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels (arteries) that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. It causes increased strain on the heart and can eventually result in heart failure. PAH is only one type of Pulmonary Hypertension (increased blood pressure within the blood vessels of the lungs).

The first symptoms of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) can be subtle and you may only notice them when you exercise – climbing stairs, running, walking uphill or carrying bags. As PAH progresses, the symptoms may become more noticeable with normal daily activity and interfere with your daily routine. It’s important to know each person experiences PAH differently.

Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling tired or fatigued
  • Dizziness
  • Chest discomfort or pain
  • A fast and/or irregular heartbeat
  • Light-headedness or fainting
  • Swelling in your legs and /or abdomen
  • Lips and fingers turning purple or blue.

Take two minutes to complete the Lung Health Checklist below. 

Support

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension is a very complex disease so you may find the medical information confusing or difficult to understand at times. With guidance from health care professionals, Lung Foundation Australia has developed resources to help you understand more about PAH, how to manage your condition and help you to live better with PAH.

Our Information and Support Centre team are here to assist you with your questions, provide general information and referral to support services. This free and confidential service is available Monday to Friday 8am – 4.30pm (AEST). Call  1800 654 301  or email us below.

 

Contact us

Information and Resources

Living with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Living with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension is a free booklet, designed in collaboration with respiratory physicians, rheumatologists, cardiologists, PAH nurse consultants and people in the PAH community, about the symptoms, diagnosis and management of PAH, including important self-management tips.

View Link

Live Well, Breathe Better Pulmonary Hypertension Webinar Series

For PH awareness month, Lung Foundation Australia is hosting three webinars as part of the Live Well, Breathe Better Pulmonary Hypertension Webinar Series. Don’t miss your opportunity to hear tips and advice from experts on how to live well with PH.

View Link

Get Involved

We are working to break down the stigma associated with lung disease and raise awareness about the symptoms, prevalence and impact of lung diseases such as Pulmonary Hypertension. There are many ways you can support us make a difference.

Share your story – Lung disease doesn’t discriminate. It affects almost 1 in 3 Australians from all walks of life, all who are equally worthy of care and support. Sharing stories helps breakdown stigma and stereotypes. If you are living with a lung disease – please share your story here to help others know they are not alone.

Donate – Every donation counts towards funding life-changing research and programs to reduce the prevalence of lung disease and improve support and care for all Australians.

 

Donate

Spread the word – Lung Foundation Australia has developed a Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month digital promotional pack with a selection of materials that can support your promotional efforts. Please download a free copy of the pack, which includes: social media collateral and a PDF copy of the Lung Health Checklist.

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