Psychosocial aspects of pulmonary hypertension: a review.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by progressive and sustained elevation of pulmonary-artery pressure, which ultimately leads to right-ventricular failure and death. The diagnosis carries with it an uncertain and historically very bleak prognosis. Although new oral and chronic parenteral (intravenous and subcutaneous) treatments have had a significant positive medical impact on the physical functioning of individuals with PAH, patients often struggle with new short- and long-term psychosocial challenges.