Which of the following is a consequence of pulmonary hypertension?

Pulmonary hypertension leads to elevated pressure within the pulmonary arteries, which can cause structural changes in those vessels over time. One consequence of this chronic elevation in pressure is pulmonary artery dilation. As the pressure within the pulmonary arteries increases, they may become dilated in an attempt to accommodate the increased blood flow or pressure. This dilation can affect the function of the heart, particularly the right ventricle, which has to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed or stiffened pulmonary arteries.

Understanding the link between pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary artery dilation can help in the diagnosis and management of related cardiovascular conditions. This dilation can lead to further complications, including right ventricular hypertrophy and heart failure, which underscores the importance of recognizing this relationship in clinical practice.