Risk Factors For Pulmonary Hypertension

Genetics And Family History

Genetics and family history are involved in an individual’s risk of developing pulmonary hypertension in several ways. One such example is that recent evidence suggests that mutations in some genes, including the BMPR2 gene, can cause pulmonary hypertension. This mutation can cause an overgrowth of cells, which can make the vessels narrower, forcing an individual’s blood pressure to rise.

This gene mutation means that individuals who have family members with pulmonary hypertension are at a greater risk of developing it themselves. However, it is not the only part of family history that matters. Blood clots increase an individual’s risk of this condition as well. If there is a family history of blood clots, patients are more likely to develop clots. By extension, this means they may get pulmonary hypertension as a result.

Discover what type of altitude increases the risk of this condition next.