Many people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) feel perfectly well most of the time so long as they do not strain themselves physically. In the early stages of the disease, many patients also may attend school or work on a full- or part-time basis.

Relaxation exercises and stress reduction activities may be helpful for people with PAH. Walking is good exercise for many people with PAH. Advanced patients who find walking too exhausting, may use a wheelchair or motorized scooter. Others stay busy with activities that are not of a physical nature.

People with advanced PAH may have portable oxygen when they leave their home. Ongoing medical care is essential and important. Treatment by a cardiologist or pulmonologist who specializes in pulmonary vascular medicine is strongly recommended. These specialists are usually located at major medical centers.

PAH patients should follow a healthy diet, get plenty of rest, and they should not smoke.

Situations that can make PAH symptoms worse are: