What might a PVR calculation exceeding the normal range suggest?

A PVR, or pulmonary vascular resistance, calculation that exceeds the normal range is indicative of underlying cardiovascular issues. The pulmonary vascular resistance reflects the resistance that the right ventricle must overcome to pump blood through the pulmonary arteries and into the lungs. When PVR is elevated, it can suggest problems such as pulmonary hypertension, which may result from conditions affecting the heart or lungs.

This abnormal resistance can lead to increased strain on the right side of the heart and may precede or indicate heart failure or other cardiovascular diseases. Identifying elevated PVR is crucial for diagnosing and managing these conditions effectively. The other options do not accurately reflect the significance of an elevated PVR; for example, healthy lung function would typically correlate with normal PVR levels, while dehydration is not directly associated with elevated PVR, and a normal physiological response would not result in such an elevated value. Thus, an increased PVR is a significant clinical finding that warrants further investigation into cardiovascular health.