• A PFO is a small flap-like opening between the upper chambers of the heart that doesn’t close completely after birth. While many people live with a PFO without any issues, closure might be recommended in certain situations.

   

  One of the primary reasons for considering PFO closure is if you’ve experienced a cryptogenic stroke—that’s a stroke with no apparent cause. If you’re under 60 and have had such a stroke, especially if other potential causes have been ruled out, our Atlanta cardiologists might recommend PFO closure to reduce your risk of future strokes.

• Another group that might benefit from PFO closure is those suffering from frequent or severe migraines, particularly migraines with aura. While the link between PFO and migraines is still being studied, some patients have reported significant improvement in their migraine symptoms after PFO closure. Our Atlanta cardiology team stays up-to-date with the latest research in this area and can discuss whether this option might be beneficial for you.

   

  If you’re a scuba diver, you might be at higher risk of decompression sickness due to a PFO. This condition, also known as “the bends,” occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream as you ascend from a dive. A PFO can allow these bubbles to bypass the lungs and enter the arterial circulation, potentially causing serious health issues. Our Atlanta cardiologists can assess your risk and discuss whether PFO closure could make your diving experiences safer.

   

  In rare cases, a condition called platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome might necessitate PFO closure. This syndrome causes shortness of breath and low oxygen levels when you’re sitting or standing. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and other causes have been ruled out, our Atlanta heart doctors can evaluate whether a PFO might be the culprit and if closure could provide relief.

• It’s important to note that having a PFO doesn’t automatically mean you need it closed. Our Atlanta cardiologists will carefully weigh the potential benefits of closure against the risks of the procedure. They’ll consider factors such as your age, overall health, the size of the PFO, and whether you have other risk factors for stroke or related conditions.

   

  If you have concerns about a possible PFO or if you fall into any of the categories mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact our Atlanta cardiology team. We have multiple convenient locations throughout the Atlanta metro area, making it easy for you to access top-tier cardiac care close to home or work.

Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.

You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.

To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.