What does it mean when the foramen ovale in the heart fails to close, and what should be done about it?
Jan 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, an unclosed cardiac foramen usually refers to patent foramen ovale (PFO), which may be caused by factors such as family heredity, congenital developmental abnormalities, intrauterine hypoxia, trauma, or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and receive targeted treatment based on the underlying cause. In daily life, patients should maintain a regular作息 routine.
Under normal circumstances, an unclosed cardiac foramen ovale usually refers to patent foramen ovale (PFO), which may be caused by factors such as familial inheritance, congenital developmental abnormalities, intrauterine hypoxia, trauma, or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and receive targeted treatment based on the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Familial Inheritance
If there is a family history of similar heart conditions, especially atrial septal defects, the individual's risk of developing PFO may increase. However, other discomfort symptoms are generally absent. Regular follow-up visits at the hospital are recommended to monitor recovery progress.
2. Congenital Developmental Abnormalities
If the patient’s heart did not fully develop during the embryonic stage, patent foramen ovale may occur. However, it typically does not affect normal daily life. Adequate rest is advised, and strenuous physical activity should be avoided in the short term.
3. Intrauterine Hypoxia
If intrauterine hypoxia occurs during pregnancy and is not effectively treated, it may cause damage to the heart, leading to the aforementioned condition. In such cases, timely oxygen therapy can help alleviate symptoms effectively.
4. Trauma
If the heart valves suffer severe injury, the above-mentioned issue may arise during the recovery phase. It could even impair normal cardiac function, causing symptoms such as chest discomfort and tightness. In these cases, patients may seek treatment at a正规 hospital via procedures such as percutaneous transcatheter closure, valvuloplasty, or valve replacement surgery.
5. Coronary Atherosclerotic Heart Disease
This condition is mostly due to narrowing of the coronary arteries, which may impair local blood circulation and lead to abnormal cardiac function, thereby triggering the aforementioned issues. Some patients may also experience shortness of breath, palpitations, or indigestion. Treatment may include medications such as clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, and rosuvastatin calcium tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
In daily life, patients should maintain a regular作息 schedule, ensure sufficient sleep, and avoid staying up late. Additionally, spicy and greasy foods should be avoided, while foods rich in protein, vitamins, and other nutrients are encouraged.
