PFO: The Common Heart Condition You Might Not Know You Have
Patent foramen ovale (PFO), a small hole in the heart, is quite common, affecting about one in four people. In most cases, it causes no symptoms or complications, and many people may not even know they have it.
PFO occurs naturally and should close after birth, but in some cases, it persists. Most individuals with PFO live symptom-free, but possible symptoms can include migraines, especially those with aura, shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart palpitations. In rare instances, blood clots can pass through the opening to the brain, leading to stroke, a condition known as paradoxical embolism.
Diagnosis typically involves an echocardiogram, which may include a bubble test to confirm the presence of the hole. There's a potential link between PFO and migraines, with some people experiencing reduced migraines after surgical correction. Adults with PFO may have a slightly higher risk of stroke, but this is still an area of ongoing research.
Treatment is usually not necessary for most cases of PFO. However, adults who've experienced blood clots or strokes may require surgery to close the hole or be prescribed blood-thinning medication. The procedure to close PFO, often performed using a catheterization, is generally safe and effective.
In summary, PFO is a common heart condition that typically causes no issues. While it may be linked to certain symptoms and slightly increases the risk of stroke in adults, the long-term outlook for people with PFO is excellent. Most people with PFO live normal, healthy lives, and treatment is only necessary in specific cases.
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