PPM, or Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) with Paradoxical Embolism, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of a hole in the heart that should have normally closed after birth. The hole, called a patent foramen ovale, is present in approximately 25% of the adult population, but in most cases, it causes no symptoms or health problems. However, in some people, the hole can allow blood clots or other materials to pass from the right side of the heart to the left side of the heart, where it can be circulated to the rest of the body, including the brain. This can lead to a stroke or other serious health problems.
The symptoms of PPM are often related to the underlying condition that is causing the paradoxical embolism, rather than the PFO itself. Some of the common symptoms of PPM include:
Stroke: A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function that occurs due to a disruption of blood flow to the brain. It can cause a range of symptoms, including weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, and loss of coordination or balance.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A TIA is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain that can cause symptoms similar to a stroke, but usually only lasts for a few minutes to a few hours. TIAs are often referred to as “mini-strokes” and can be a warning sign of a more serious stroke to come.
Migraine with Aura: Migraine with aura is a type of migraine where the person experiences visual or sensory disturbances before the onset of the headache. These disturbances can include flashes of light, blind spots, or tingling sensations in the arms or legs.
Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein and travels to the lungs, where it can block blood flow and cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area.
Hypoxia: Hypoxia is a condition where the body’s tissues are not receiving enough oxygen. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fatigue, and confusion.
It is important to note that not all people with PPM will experience symptoms, and some people may only experience symptoms during specific activities, such as exercise or high-altitude travel. Additionally, not all cases of stroke or other related conditions are caused by PPM, and other underlying health conditions or risk factors should be considered during diagnosis and treatment.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or have concerns about PPM or related conditions, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
