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PFO Closure Success Story - 4 Years Later

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Posted 10/24/2012 12:00 AM (GMT 0)
Hi All,

I wanted to post an update on my PFO closure to maybe help some of you in making your decisions.

I had my PFO closed 4 years ago tomorrow. It was a difficult decision, but it was the right one.

I am enjoying the same quality of life I had before. I would say I am enjoying it even more this time, since I am much more grateful for everyday I have on this Earth to live, see my family and enjoy my beautiful life!

It is such a difficult time for so many of you, I know, but I am just writing to let you know that there is hope. There are many success stories out there and I am one of them.

I will always be grateful for the people on this forum because they listened and they cared. And they truly understood, something which our friends and family may find difficult because this is such a rare condition.

I am a happy survivor of this condition and I just wanted to share that with the rest of you.

I wish you much luck and wisdom in making your decisions. It's difficult, but you will get through this.

Greenhope (Sara)

Posted 11/5/2012 3:42 AM (GMT 0)
HiGreenhope,

Congratulations! It is very relieving to hear that you have successfully gone through 4 years post PFO closure without any problems.
I had mine closed 6 weeks ago.
Im curious as to when i can resume back to my usual exercise. Before i had a stroke in May 2012, i ran 6-7 times a week, 5-8 K each time. I have missed going back to run. So after my closure, i am keen on going back to running. Just a question, how long do you have to wait before resuming back to your exercise routine? I tried to do a research but apparently there is no clear guidelines.
I cant wait to start running again but im scared that it will do harm on the device. Is it better to just wait after 6 months or even up to a year to go back running when i know for sure the heart tissue has covered the device by then. Please anyone, help me! I need my exercise, my weight has been skyrocketing since i had a stroke.
Posted 11/7/2012 5:22 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Vicencey,

I am glad that you are recovering well.  I would say, be patient and wait at least 6 months before any heavy exercise.  In the next few weeks and months, start with low impact, as my Cardiologist suggested, like walking and yoga.  Honestly, I really disliked this advice at first, but in hindsight, it was wise advice and I made a wise decision to follow it.  After 6 months, if you feel great, then start running - I would run/walk first and then slowly build your endurance to just running. 

I hope this helps you.  Really, each person is different, and your body may be ready for running sooner.  However, when I doubt, I always err on the side of caution.

Please feel free to reach out to me for any other questions or concerns you may have.

Greenhope

 

Posted 11/8/2012 3:28 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Greenhope,

Thanks so much for the advise!

I decided to follow your advise and taking it slow. Just doing a brisk walk on the treadmil, nothing too strenous.
Probably will try to start swimming also in the next week or so.

Im very happy to have my PFO closure but to be honest i didnt feel any much different from before the closure. At least i wont have to worry i'd ever get another stroke. Did your doctor recommend to have you take aspirin for 6 months or for the rest of your life?

Thanks again!
Take care and stay healthy!
Posted 11/9/2012 1:26 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Vicevencey,

I'm glad to hear you are taking it slowly - it's better to be cautious. 

As for the aspirin regimen: my Cardiologist placed me on Plavix for the first 6 months post surgery and then a Baby/Low dose Aspirin (81 mg) for the rest of my life. I have to admit, I am not as disciplined with the Baby Aspirin because it affects my stomach, but I take it 2-4 times/week.

I am feeling better than ever.  I do have to take care of myself, of course, not only because I am getting older but because my body demands it. However, doing all the right things (eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep) does make a huge difference in my life.

Take care and please feel free to reach out to me whenever you need advice.

Greenhope

Posted 1/28/2018 2:39 PM (GMT 0)
HI all,

New to this forum and wanted to reach out... I just had my PFO closed Friday and was wondering how all are doing?

Looking froward to working out again, but as I read, Six months seems to be the timeline...

Thanks in advance for anyone who can respond*

Kevin
Posted 2/20/2018 11:09 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Dedoman,

I had my PFO closed November 9, 2017 due to having a cryptogenic stroke in September of 2017. I am now 3 1/2 months post procedure (closed with Amplatzer occluder device) and doing well. I have gone back to the gym for weights and some light cardio. My cardiologist cleared me for anything I wanted to do, but I am trying to ease into things.

Prior to closure I was healthy and active (run, bike, hike, etc.).
Posted 9/24/2018 2:09 AM (GMT 0)
Having my PFO closed in days!!! Help! How's everyone doing after your closure?? Need some reasurance!
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