Pulmonary hypertension in dogs

What is pulmonary hypertension?

A dog with pulmonary hypertension suffers from high pressure in the pulmonary artery. Pulmonary hypertension is also known as pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). This problem can be caused by a wide range of underlying health problems, including pulmonary thromboembolism and heartworm disease. Pulmonary hypertension should always be evaluated by a veterinarian since it can lead to right-sided heart disease and be a symptom of a serious health problem that must be treated.

Pulmonary hypertension symptoms in dogs

A dog with pulmonary hypertension can develop exercise intolerance, breathing difficulties and cyanosis. Cyanosis is caused by excessive amounts of inadequately oxygenated blood in the dog's circulatory system. In a dog with cyanosis, gums, tongue, lips and other areas of skin or mucous membranes where the blood vessels are close to the surface will become purplish or bluish. Sometimes it will also be possible to see a purplish/bluish coloration of the foot pads.