What features would lead one to suspect a PFO?
Correct statements
- Unexplained ischaemic stroke at young age
- Recent DVT
- Prolonged immobility – long distance air travel, operation
- Development of “the bends” (decompression sickness) during diving
- Stroke occurring after straining (e.g lifting, defaecation)
Incorrect statements
- Heart murmurs
- Chest pains
Page last reviewed: 13 May 2020
