A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a hole in the heart that didn’t close the way it should after birth. Before birth, the foramen ovale is an opening between the right and left atria of the heart. This opening allows blood to bypass the lungs, which aren’t functioning yet since the baby is receiving oxygen from the placenta. Normally, the foramen ovale closes shortly after birth as the baby starts to breathe on their own, but in some people, the hole remains open — this is called a patent foramen ovale.
Key points about PFO:
- Incidence: It’s estimated that about 25% of adults have a PFO, though many don’t know they have it since it typically doesn’t cause any symptoms or health issues.
- Symptoms: Most people with a PFO won’t experience symptoms. However, in some cases, a PFO may be linked to an increased risk of stroke, particularly in younger individuals who have no other common risk factors for stroke.
- Diagnosis: A PFO is usually discovered through an echocardiogram, particularly a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) or a contrast bubble study.
- Complications: In rare cases, if a person has a clot (like from deep vein thrombosis), it could pass through the PFO and travel to the brain, causing a stroke. This is called a paradoxical embolism.
- Treatment: Most people with PFO don’t need treatment. However, if it is linked to recurrent strokes or other health issues, treatment options might include:
- Medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce stroke risk.
- Surgical or catheter-based closure of the PFO, where a device is used to seal the hole.
While PFO is often asymptomatic, it’s something that should be considered, especially if a person has had a stroke or unexplained neurological symptoms. Consulting with a cardiologist or healthcare provider can help evaluate the need for treatment or monitoring.
“Transforming complex healthcare concepts into clear, engaging content that educates, informs, and empowers your audience.”
Planning, Healthcare writing, English/Arabic Translation, Audits, Strategic advice, Feasibility Study, Risk management, Key messages, Brand stories, Content plans, Website strategy.
Research, User experience, Focus groups, Consultations, Advisory Groups, Conferences, Research Desk.
Content, Website content, Digital health, E-learning, Email copywriting, Patient Information, Marketing collaterals, Physician marketing, Physician interviews, Internal Communications support, Arabic English copy translation and editing.
Healthcare Content Writing, editing and translation.
Medical Writing, editing and translation Services
Health Blog Writing, editing and translation.
Healthcare SEO Content and strategy.
Medical Content Writer, editor and Translator
Health and Wellness Writing, editing and translation.
Medical Article Writing, editing and translation.
Healthcare Copywriting, copyediting and copy translation.
Health Website Content writing, edition and translation.
SEO for Healthcare Websites Strategy.
Medical Blog Writing, editing and translation Services
Health Content Creation and strategy.
Medical Marketing Content, and strategy.
Healthcare SEO Specialist.
Medical Research Writer.
Healthcare Content Strategy.
Health Articles Writing Strategy.
Medical Content Development strategy.
Healthcare Copywriter for Hire.
Patient Education Content Writing.