PFO related stroke

Meri 6. Years ago I had a massive stroke. The cause was never found. Then  two and a half years later I was aware I had a cluster of mini strokes. I felt the symptoms. Back to my neurologist who sent me to a cardiologist,tests revealed a hole in my heart. The big stroke came from my heart. What a shock and great relief. I had to go to Melbourne (I am in Launceston)for the procedure at Monash Cardiac. This all happened  prior to Christmas so there was a waiting time as medicos were on holidays. That Closure was a life saver for me. It had to be done. I was 82 when this happened, I am well and my cardiologist happy with my heart. I hope I have eased your anxiety re having the procedure. Jenny

Hi Jenny, thank you so much for your reply and I am very happy to hear your cause was found and treated.  I am happy you are doing well.  

Your response does help me so I am grateful for your info.  I have often thought about the procedure being even more beneficial to me as I get older. 😊

Thank you again Nd wishing you continued good health! x

Hi Meri.

I had a stroke in 2017 and after a multitude of tests they could find no rhyme or reason for the stroke at age 44. Eventually they found I had a PFO via a relatively simple bubble test. The decision was made to close it which made me a bit anxious at first. However after it was done I could not believe the difference.  I.used to get very sick and breathless and by lunch time completely exhausted.  Since the op I am A  new man. Everybody says I have more colour now. I have energy to boot and rarely if ever get sick . I even opened my own shop however due to getting an electric shock at work in the last month or so I have gone backwards very quickly. However the Pfo closure for me was definately a life changing event so as long as your not planning on getting an electric shock I cant see any problems. I hope this helps. Feel free to private message me if u need to talk further about it.

Regards Ade

Hi Ade, 

Thanks for your message.  I am glad to hear the closure has given you better health.

I too had the bubble test whilst I was in hospital and also a TOE (trans oesophageal echo) which confirmed the pfo.

It seems you've had a positive experience with it, which is great to hear.  It's interesting you talking about the other symptoms you had prior to the closure which are now gone.  That's amazing.  I can't say I have the same, however, it does make me wonder whether I will just feel better after closure... perhaps there's things that will improve 😉

I do have some other questions, so I might pm you, as suggested. 

Thanks heaps for your feedback.  

Cheers 

(ps - no, I don't plan to open any electrical shops.. 😂) 

Hi Meri

I had a PFO related stroke on Nov 23, 2018. I am 50 years old. I subequently had a TOE to check that my previously diagnosed PFO caused it - which it did. I was operated on ten days later and had a monitor inserted to check for AF - which I dont have. I was aware o9f the PFO when I was diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy at age 39 but the cardio didnt see the risk being substantial enough to close it. I havent had any further side effects but am back at work and battling fatigue

Thanks

Anna

Had a PFO closure a year and a half ago. Was pretty nervous in the lead up and tbh didn't think the Valium was going to be enough so they gave me some diazapam too. The whole thing was really quick, I had lovely doctors and chatted to them all the way through (the diazapam worked). The Amplatzer's are handmade by Bolivian Artisan women - you'll have a unique artwork at the heart of you. No need to worry, it's quick and simple. In and out in a day.

Hello...I understand how you feel. I am 41, mum of 2.   My youngest was only 8 months when I had a PFO related stroke in June 2018 which was multi hemisphere, indicating it came from a central source - cardiac. All other tests negative. I had the PFO closed in August. The day procedure was simple and  I have had no complications. My only issue - I wasn’t strong going into the procedure. We had gastro go through our house the week prior and I was only two months post stroke. I had a hard time for a couple of months after with fatigue and overall strength. Get yourself as strong as you can first but don’t wait too long. All the best. You can do this. Send me a message if you would like.