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What
Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
PH is a rare and serious lung disorder in which the pressure
in the pulmonary artery (the blood vessel that leads from the heart
to the lungs) rises above normal levels and may become life threatening.
Symptoms of PH include shortness of breath with minimal exertion,
fatigue, dizzy spells and fainting. PH is extremely rare, occurring
in about 2 persons per million.
Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is when pulmonary
hypertension occurs in the absence of a known cause.
Secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH) occurs as a result
of other medical conditions, including breathing disorders such as
emphysema and bronchitis and vascular diseases such as scleroderma,
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or CREST syndrome. Congenital heart
disease involving heart valves and pulmonary thromboembolism are also
common causes. As of late, much has also been noted regarding a possible
link to the diet drug combination known as "Phen-Fen".
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The Pulmonary Hypertension Society of Canada is a non-profit
organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for pulmonary
hypertension patients through: |
- Funding
of improved patient care.
- Education
and lobbying of government.
- Research
of improved treatments and ultimately, a cure.
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further information or to contribute to the society please contact: |
The Pulmonary Hypertension Society of Canada
Suite 202-2510 Ouellette Avenue
Windsor, Ontario
N8X 1L4
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Leon
Paroian – Chairman
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Kari
Schofield |
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