By Akshay Muralidhar

Pulmonary hypertension is a widely misunderstood and misrepresented condition. While therapies, research and clinical data have advanced, much of the information available online remains outdated or misleading. For people who are newly diagnosed, this can contribute to fear, confusion and a sense of hopelessness.

Akshay Muralidhar, director of the Pulmonary Hypertension Comprehensive Care Center of Excellence at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, Ltd., refutes common myths he’s heard from his patients or seen on the internet and provides accurate, evidence-based information for those with PH.

Myth: Mortality is nearly certain with a PH diagnosis

Prior to the introduction of intravenous prostacyclin therapies in the 1990s, this myth was true; however, patient outcomes have improved substantially. Today, multiple treatment options target different disease pathways, changing the course of PH for many patients.

Advances in clinical data allow providers to risk-stratify patients based on symptoms, imaging findings, six-minute walk distance, blood tests and hemodynamic data. These tools help estimate the likelihood of disease-related complications and guide treatment decisions, with the goal of lowering risk over time. As new therapies continue to become available, achieving and maintaining lower-risk disease status has become more feasible for many patients. The goal is to provide proper intervention to manage symptoms and optimize patients’ quality of life.

Myth: Exercise is unsafe for those with PH

Although there are specific situations in which providers may temporarily limit activity—such as at the time of diagnosis, before treatment is initiated, or if a patient is experiencing deterioration of an organ system—exercise is beneficial for most patients with PH.

Studies show exercise can improve stamina, functional capacity and symptoms. Structured exercise programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation supervised by experienced PH providers, can offer significant physical and quality-of-life benefits. It’s important to always discuss starting an exercise program with your care team.

Myth: There is only one type of PH

PH is a serious condition that requires specialized care; however, not all PH is pulmonary arterial hypertension. PH includes several distinct subtypes, each with its own underlying mechanisms, natural history and treatment approach. Some of these categories may overlap, but they may not be treated in the same way.

Medications approved for PAH are not effective—and may not be appropriate—for other forms of PH. Consultation with a PH specialist is essential to determine the likely cause of PH and to develop an individualized treatment plan.

Myth: PH only affects people of a certain age, gender or background

Pulmonary hypertension can affect individuals of any age, gender, ethnicity or background. While certain subtypes of PH are more commonly seen in specific demographic groups, no population is immune to the disease. Awareness of this broad risk is important for early recognition and timely diagnosis.

Myth: There is nothing patients can do beyond taking medications

Patients play an active role in managing their PH. In addition to medication adherence, patients can meaningfully support their treatment by engaging in supervised exercise as recommended by their care team, following dietary guidance, monitoring parameters such as daily weight and avoiding harmful substances, including illicit stimulants.

PH is also a mental battle. As a chronic condition, it can be incredibly painful and difficult to accept a new reality. Finding coping strategies, such as journaling, meditating, going to therapy or attending a support group can help you feel less isolated in your journey.

These lifestyle measures, when combined with medical therapy, can contribute to improved symptom control and overall disease management.