Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jun 28, 2024 4 days, 13 hours, 11 minutes ago
Ophthalmology Updates: Introduction to Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)
Did you know that a small hole in your heart could lead to significant problems, including issues with your eyes? This tiny hole, known as a patent foramen ovale (PFO), is a common congenital heart defect. Usually, it closes soon after birth, but in some people, it remains open. This condition affects roughly 25-30% of the population. This
Ophthalmology Updates report is based on a study review by researchers from University of Cagliari-Italy that focuses on vision problems that patent foramen ovale (PFO) can cause.
Retinal ischemic events related to PFO: (A) Multimodal imaging of a CRAO. On fundus photography, the retina at the posterior pole appears pale and opaque due to the ischemia; a distinctive cherry-red spot is visible at the fovea, which remains red due to the underlying choroidal circulation. The retinal arteries are thin and narrowed. (B) Fluorescein angiography reveals a hypofluorescent macular spot secondary to the ischemia of retinal layers. (C) The latter is confirmed by optical coherence tomography (OCT), which shows hyper-reflective and edematous inner retinal layers.
What is PFO?
A PFO is a hole in the heart that didn’t close the way it should after birth. During fetal development, this hole exists to allow blood to bypass the lungs, which are not yet in use. After birth, the hole typically seals shut, but for some, it remains open, providing a pathway for blood clots or other embolic materials to travel through the bloodstream.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/patent-foramen-ovale-a-hidden-threat-in-our-hearts
How Can PFO Affect Your Eyes?
While many people with PFO may not experience any symptoms, it can sometimes cause serious problems, particularly with the eyes. Some of these issues include:
-Transient Visual Disturbances: Brief episodes where vision becomes blurry or partially lost.
-Retinal Artery Occlusion: Blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the retina, which can lead to sudden vision loss.
-Migraine with Aura: Severe headaches often preceded by visual symptoms such as flashing lights or blind spots.
-Impaired Eye Movement: Difficulty moving the eyes properly, leading to issues like double vision.
-Endogenous Eye Infections: Rarely, infections from other parts of the body can spread to the eyes through the bloodstream.
Understanding the Connection
The connection between PFO and
eye problems lies in how blood flows through the body. Normally, blood clots are filtered out by the lungs. However, with a PFO, clots can bypass the lungs and travel directly to the brain or eyes, leading to serious complications.
Retinal Artery Occlusion: A Closer Look
Retinal artery occlusion is one of the more severe conditions associated with PFO. It involves a blockage in the arteries supplying the retina, causing sudden, painless vision loss. This condition is an emergency and requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision damage.
Migraine with Aura: Not Just a Headache
Migraines with aura involve severe headaches preceded by visual disturbances. Studies have shown a higher prevalence of PFO in people who suffer from these types of migraines. The exact reason is unclear, but it’s believed that blood clots or other substances bypass the lungs and trigger these migraines.
Diagnosing PFO
Diagnosing PFO often involves imaging techniques like echocardiography, which uses ultrasound to create pictures of the heart. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are commonly used. These tests help doctors see if there is a hole in the heart and if it’s causing problems.
Treatment Options
If you have PFO and it’s causing problems, several treatment options are available:
-Medication: Blood thinners can reduce the risk of clots traveling through the PFO.
-Closure Procedures: In some cases, doctors may recommend closing the PFO. This can be done using a catheter-based procedure where a device is placed to seal the hole.
-Lifestyle Changes: Managing risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, and cholesterol can also help.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience sudden vision loss, severe headaches with visual disturbances, or unexplained eye movement problems, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate a PFO or another serious condition that needs prompt treatment.
Conclusion
A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common heart defect that can lead to serious complications, including problems with your eyes. Understanding the signs and seeking early treatment can help manage these issues effectively. If you experience any related symptoms, consult your doctor for appropriate tests and treatment options.
Future Directions
As research continues, we hope to gain a better understanding of PFO and its complications. This could lead to improved treatments and outcomes for those affected. For now, awareness and prompt medical attention remain key to managing this condition effectively.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed Journal of Personalized Medicine.
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4426/14/7/695
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Ophthalmology Updates, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-s-hidden-impact-on-eyes-unveiling-rare-retinal-conditions
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