What is a patent foramen ovale and what is the problem caused by it?

Definition. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born. PFO is what the hole is called when it fails to close naturally after a baby is born.

Does a PFO go away?

The foramen ovale usually closes 6 months to a year after the baby’s birth. When the foramen ovale stays open after birth, it’s called a patent (PAY-tent, which means “open”) foramen ovale (PFO). A PFO usually causes no problems. If a newborn has congenital heart defects, the foramen ovale is more likely to stay open.

Should you get a PFO closed?

If you have, then closing the hole can reduce the risk of recurrent strokes. If the PFO is sizable, it may allow large amounts of blood to move back and forth between the left and right sides of your heart. This can create pressure and cause your heart to enlarge. Closing the PFO can protect your heart’s function.

What does the foramen ovale become in adults?

In most individuals, the foramen ovale closes at birth. It later forms the fossa ovalis.

Can a PFO cause a stroke?

Symptoms and Causes Most patients with a PFO do not have any symptoms. However, the condition may play a role in migraine headaches and it increases the risk of stroke, transient ischemic attack and heart attack.

Is PFO considered heart disease?

A patent foramen ovale is a small, flap-like opening in the wall between the right and left upper chambers of the heart. It usually causes no signs or symptoms and rarely requires treatment. Generally, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) doesn’t cause complications. Some people with a PFO may have other heart defects.

What is the purpose of foramen ovale?

The foramen ovale makes it possible for the blood to go from the veins to the right side of the fetus’ heart, and then directly to the left side of the heart. The foramen ovale normally closes as blood pressure rises in the left side of the heart after birth.

Is a PFO considered heart disease?

Can a PFO cause fatigue?

Dr Ross Sharpe explains “The presence of a large PFO can be a cause of stroke but can also result in a myriad of clinical symptoms. These symptoms can include a feeling of breathlessness or fatigue performing normal day to day tasks, such as hanging out the washing or going for a jog.

What should happen to the foramen ovale at birth?

Normally, the foramen ovale closes shortly after birth and is subsequently completely sealed off. If the foramen ovale does not seal properly, the condition is called a patent foramen ovale (PFO).