A connective tissue disease is a condition that affects parts of the body that connect everything together. Collagen and elastin make up connective tissues, including ligaments and skin. When a connective tissue disorder is present, these tissues become inflamed and damage to the body can occur. Rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma are two examples of connective tissue disorder.
Pulmonary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the lungs and right side of the heart. It begins when tiny arteries in the lungs become narrowed or blocked, causing the right ventricle in the heart to pump harder. It is a serious, progressive disease with no cure.
