PFO Closure

I am a new member. This series of postings has been invaluable to my peace of mind. I had a massive (rt. side) stroke in June, that was caught in time (I knew I was OK as I woke in ICU fingering guitar chords to a song streaming through my brain). The cause was an undiagnosed rather large PFO (total surprise to me, a high country backpacker who works out regularly, however I do get migraines (with auras)). 3 weeks ago my cardiologist installed a gore helix device via catheter. Lots of scary palpitations the first few days, but thanks to this forum I knew that was not uncommon. I had been walking 30 to 40 minutes daily since the stroke, instead of going to the YMCA, and after the PFO closure, almost immediately (2 days after), I continued that, especially as my shape seemed to change for the worse while in hospital (tho. no wt. gain). As soon as I felt ready, I went to the YMCA once each week, doing my usual workout, including lifting 2 8lb. weights, as I'd been told there were "no restrictions except contact sports". The day after the second Y visit (end of week 2), I started getting scary palpitations every evening as soon as I relaxed, or whenever I would lie down. I checked my blood pressure each time (I'm on blood pressure med. though my pressure is low/normal, as a precaution, as well as plavix, aspirin, and zocor (anti-inflamatory), and every few episodes an arythmia registered, plus usually higher than usual bp, esp. diastolic, and very high or very low pulse. I also became aware that I had more shortness of breath than I had before, especially in the p.m., and definitely a chest tightness, that felt a bit like asthma coming on, though no asthma. There is a trace amount of ash in the air, not visible except at sunset, so that might add to the feeling. I have been so relieved that so many of you have posted similar feelings! I've tried ibuprofen, which seems to help a bit. I also have mild headaches in the a.m., but no migraines. I see the cardiologist and my regular doctor next week, the neurologist in a couple of weeks. I will speak to them of this, but in the meantime, does anyone have info. as to when the palpitations and chest/lung discomfort go away?!

Hi Guitargirl,

I was told specifically by my cardiologist not to do anything but a casual walk or swim for the first 90 days.  He said it was very important not to get my heart rate above 110 beats per minute.  He said that while your heart is acceping the closure device and healing around it, that you did not want blood rushing too hard or fast against it. 

Also I am on plavix and aspirin daily.  I am not allowed to take ibuprofen with those medicines (not sure if you are on them).  I worked out 4 days a week prior to the surgery but am following doctors orders not to at this point.

Mama bear