The condition in which the arteries that connect the heart and lungs undergo high blood pressure is called pulmonary arterial hypertension, i.e., PAH. It is often fatal and is different from common hypertension. This condition leads to blockage of arteries in the lungs, making the flow of blood extremely difficult. The heart weakens by pumping blood harder. Let us understand common causes and risk factors of this condition.

1. Causes
The most common causes of this condition are

• Blood Clots
  Blood clots can sometimes present with scars that narrow arteries or clog them, which can lead chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. If a clot blocks a vessel that’s responsible for carrying blood to the lungs, it is known as pulmonary embolism.

• Left Heart Disease
  One of the most common causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension is improper working of the heart’s left side. The right side has to pump blood more rigorously through the lungs if the left side is not functioning properly. Such a disparity leads to increased pulmonary arterial pressure. Some of the common problems with the left side of the heart include mitral valve problems, aortic valve problems, and left ventricle problems. 

• Lung Disease or Lack of Oxygen
  Lack of oxygen or hypoxia is another majorly common cause of pulmonary arterial hypertension. When the oxygen level is low, the pulmonary arteries become narrow. The blood is thus squeezed into a smaller space, thereby causing blood pressure, which leads to pulmonary hypertension. In addition, some lung diseases that can lead to this condition include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, and conditions that cause erratic breathing in deep sleep.
• Unknown Causes
  Sometimes, the causes for high blood pressure in the lungs are not evident. In such cases, the condition is named idiopathic pulmonary hypertension. Although we do not know for sure, genes are said to play a role in one’s chances of getting this condition.

2. Risk Factors
Some of the common risk factors of pulmonary arterial hypertension are

• Family History
  There are more chances of getting this condition if someone in the immediate family has the condition.

• Obesity
  Obesity is directly related to the occurrence of this condition as the blood pressure increases due to weight on arteries.
• Substances and Medications
  The use of illicit substances is a major risk factor for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Likewise, consumption of some other medications, especially weight-loss capsules, can also increase the chances of this condition. Other medications that can increase chances of this condition include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors that are used to treat anxiety and depression. 

Being aware of these causes and risk factors help with accurate diagnosis and effectively quick treatment. Consulting a doctor about the potential threats is an effective step to take against pulmonary arterial hypertension.