Clare Adams, a 45-year-old resident of Widnes, is currently navigating a life-threatening diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) following a 2023 holiday to Marmaris, Turkey. After initial treatment for influenza, Adams experienced persistent breathlessness and heart complications, leading to a diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension in November 2023 and a subsequent diagnosis of the rarer PVOD in May 2025.
How does influenza trigger respiratory complications?
According to the NHS, influenza does not directly cause pulmonary arterial hypertension, but the virus can trigger severe, secondary complications within the lungs. While Adams initially sought care for flu-like symptoms after returning from Turkey, her condition progressed to chronic respiratory failure. Medical professionals initially suspected long COVID before identifying the underlying damage to the right side of her heart.
Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) is a rare, life-threatening form of pulmonary hypertension characterized by the blockage of small veins in the lungs. Unlike standard hypertension, it is often resistant to conventional vasodilator therapies.
What is the current outlook for PVOD patients?
The prognosis for PVOD is often severe, with many patients facing a life expectancy measured in weeks or months upon diagnosis, according to medical reports cited by Adams. Despite receiving a terminal prognosis in May 2025, Adams is currently undergoing treatment with epoprostenol, a medication designed to widen blood vessels. She is actively pursuing a double lung transplant to extend her life expectancy, noting slight improvements over the past 12 months.
Living with chronic illness: A patient perspective
Adams, who now requires an oxygen mask 24/7 and uses a wheelchair, has begun writing a children’s book titled My Auntie. The project, developed in collaboration with her nephew, aims to normalize the visibility of disabilities for younger audiences. Adams stated that her primary goal is to demonstrate that she can maintain her role as an aunt despite the physical limitations imposed by her condition.
Comparison of Diagnosis Timelines
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Initial illness | Summer 2023 |
| Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnosis | November 2023 |
| PVOD Diagnosis | May 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the primary symptoms of PVOD? Shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and an inability to maintain adequate oxygen levels are common indicators.
- Can PVOD be cured? It is a serious, rare condition. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms and assessing candidacy for a double lung transplant.
- How does epoprostenol work? Epoprostenol is a medication that works by widening the blood vessels in the lungs to reduce pressure and improve blood flow.
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