This is a question that only your doctor can address specifically for you.
In a small number of patients, PH can be inherited. In these patients, there is often a family history of PH in a close relative (for example, parents, siblings, children). It is likely that these patients inherited a defective (also known as mutant) gene that causes PH. These patients are said to have familial PAH (FPAH).
In a small number of patients, there is no clear cause for PH. In such patients, PH is labeled idiopathic PAH (IPAH; previously known as primary PH = PPH).
In many patients, PH is the result of a condition of the heart or lungs or another medical condition that can cause PH. These include:
- Heart disease, such a heart failure
- Lung disease, such as emphysema
- Blood clots in the lungs (also known as pulmonary embolism)
- Connective tissue diseases such as scleroderma (also known as CREST)
- Infection with HIV
- Severe liver disease, such as cirrhosis
- Use of certain medications, such as appetite-suppressant medications for weight loss (also known as anorexigens) or recreational drugs (like cocaine)