Can a patent foramen ovale at age 13 still heal on its own?

Sep 24, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

The foramen ovale is an opening in the heart that exists during fetal development to facilitate blood circulation. In most people, it naturally closes after birth. Generally, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) at the age of 13 may resolve spontaneously. Since the cardiac structure is still developing and possesses self-repairing capabilities, physiological changes in the heart with aging can promote its natural closure.

The foramen ovale is an opening in the heart that exists during fetal development to facilitate blood flow and typically closes naturally after birth in most people. In general, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) at the age of 13 may resolve spontaneously. Patients are advised to promptly visit a hospital and follow medical guidance for appropriate treatment. The analysis is as follows:

If this opening remains unclosed into adulthood, it is referred to as patent foramen ovale. In children and adolescents, especially around the age of 13, there is a relatively high chance that the foramen ovale will close naturally as part of normal growth and development. This is primarily because the heart structure is still maturing and retains some capacity for self-repair. As the individual ages, physiological demands on the heart change, and increasing pressure promotes closure of the foramen ovale.

The likelihood of spontaneous closure depends on multiple factors. However, if the opening is large or structural conditions make closure less likely, the probability of self-resolution decreases. While PFO often causes no obvious symptoms, it may increase the risk of complications such as stroke, pulmonary embolism, and atrial fibrillation. Therefore, even if the opening is small, regular follow-up evaluations are recommended to monitor changes and assess whether further intervention is necessary.

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What does it mean when a 13-year-old has a heart rate of 120 beats per minute without any discomfort, and what should be done?

Under normal circumstances, the resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate of 120 beats per minute is considered elevated. In a 13-year-old, a heart rate of 120 beats per minute may be caused by intense physical activity, myocarditis, pericarditis, anemia, hyperthyroidism, or other conditions. The patient should promptly seek medical evaluation at a reputable hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

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