How long can someone live without surgery for a patent foramen ovale?

1. It is unclear how long someone can live with an unoperated patent foramen ovale (PFO).

2. The foramen ovale refers to the physiological channel in the embryonic atrial septum of the heart. When a child cries for the first time after birth, its function closes. Generally, it fuses around 2 months after birth. If a child over 1 year old has not achieved this fused state, it is called a patent foramen ovale. Patients typically experience shortness of breath after exertion, palpitations, atrial fibrillation, right ventricular hypertrophy with right heart failure, or respiratory infections, and need to seek medical attention promptly to clarify their condition. Surgical treatment may be necessary. Without surgery, it may affect the patient's survival, but it is unclear how long the patient can live.

3. Patients should adjust their emotions in daily life, face the disease with a positive attitude, improve their lifestyle, maintain sufficient sleep, avoid staying up late and fatigue, eat a light diet with balanced nutrition, engage in appropriate exercise, and regularly follow up with their doctors as recommended. If they experience any discomfort, they should seek medical attention promptly.