More about PPH

Learn About Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

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Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is a rare disease with no known cure. Primary pulmonary hypertension is also known as pulmonary arterial (PAH). Early symptoms can include fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling ankles and fainting. Researchers have established a link between anorexigenic drugs and PPH.

Many diet pills and diet supplements from the 1980's until as recently as 2004 contained Ephedra. If you took Herbalife products or Dexatrim, and were later diagnosed with primary pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary arterial hypertension, you should contact a lawyer immediately.

What happens to individuals with primary pulmonary hypertension?

The lungs are filled with tiny blood vessels called capillaries that allow blood to absorb oxygen and deliver it to the body. Primary pulmonary hypertension describes the condition where the lungs' capillaries weaken and begin to leak blood.

This leakage causes the muscles around the capillaries to contract or tighten. Smaller capillaries make it more difficult for blood to retrieve oxygen from the lungs, putting extra strain on the heart. Over time, scar tissue begins to build up within and around the capillaries, worsening the symptoms.

Is primary pulmonary hypertension treatable?

PPH (PAH) is a terminal disease. While the disease is not curable, its symptoms can be treated and pain can be alleviated. Doctors frequently prescribe oxygen, blood thinners and other drugs to reduce blood pressure.

For some patients, lung transplants or lung and heart transplants are necessary. But these treatments are expensive. If your disease was contracted as a side effect of diet pills, you should pursue monetary compensation.

The attorneys at Blizzard, McCarthy & Nabers, LLP are nationally known for their ability to take on large drug companies and diet drug manufacturers. For a free consultation, call 866-941-1947 or contact our firm online.