Heart Beat: Hole in the heart
Heart Beat
All babies are born with a hole in the heart between the right atrium and the left. Although it usually closes within a year or so, in up to one-third of people a small opening remains into adulthood. This hole, called a patent foramen ovale, usually has no effect on heart function. It has been branded, though, as a cause of stroke in some young adults. Now there is new evidence that it could be responsible for some strokes in older people, too.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
