{"id":25524,"date":"2025-01-08T12:51:28","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:51:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/?p=25524"},"modified":"2025-01-08T12:51:28","modified_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:51:28","slug":"pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/","title":{"rendered":"PFO &#8211; Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in Diving"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PFO &#8211; Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in Diving<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Scuba diving is an exhilarating adventure that allows us to explore the mesmerizing underwater world. However, it&#8217;s crucial to be aware of potential health risks associated with this activity. One such risk that has gained attention among divers is the presence of Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) and its connection to <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/understanding-m-values-eric-baker\/\">Decompression<\/a> Sickness (DCS). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, I will explain what you need to know about PFO, its prevalence, how it affects DCS risk, and what it means for you as a diver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Article Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Understanding-Patent-Foramen-Ovale\" >Understanding Patent Foramen Ovale<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#What-is-Patent-Foramen-Oval\" >What is Patent Foramen Oval?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#How-PFO-Increases-DCS-Risk\" >How PFO Increases DCS Risk<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#DCS-%E2%80%93-The-Formation-of-Bubbles\" >DCS &#8211; The Formation of Bubbles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#The-Role-of-Patent-Foramen-Ovale-in-DCS\" >The Role of Patent Foramen Ovale in DCS<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#PFO-Increases-Overall-DCS-Risk\" >PFO Increases Overall DCS Risk<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Link-Between-PFO-and-Spinal-DCI\" >Link Between PFO and Spinal DCI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Types-of-DCS-Associated-with-Patent-Foramen-Ovale\" >Types of DCS Associated with Patent Foramen Ovale<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Do-You-Have-a-PFO\" >Do You Have a PFO?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#PFO-Is-Typically-Asymptomatic\" >PFO Is Typically Asymptomatic<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#The-Prevalence-of-PFO\" >The Prevalence of PFO<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Should-I-Get-Tested-for-a-PFO\" >Should I Get Tested for a PFO?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#The-Importance-of-Proper-PFO-Testing\" >The Importance of Proper PFO Testing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#What-Does-a-Positive-PFO-Test-Mean\" >What Does a Positive PFO Test Mean?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Understanding-Positive-PFO-Test-Results\" >Understanding Positive PFO Test Results<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Your-Options-If-Diagnosed-With-PFO\" >Your Options If Diagnosed With PFO<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#1st-Option-Stop-Diving\" >1st Option Stop Diving<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#2nd-Option-Dive-More-Conservatively\" >2nd Option Dive More Conservatively<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#3rd-Option-Close-the-PFO\" >3rd Option Close the PFO<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#How-is-a-PFO-Closed\" >How is a PFO Closed?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Diving-After-PFO-Closure\" >Diving After PFO Closure<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Diving-Risk-Factors-for-DCS-with-PFO\" >Diving Risk Factors for DCS with PFO<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Notable-Dive-Risk-Factors-With-PFO\" >Notable Dive Risk Factors With PFO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Caution-for-Divers-with-PFO\" >Caution for Divers with PFO<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Keep-Patent-Foramen-Ovale-In-Mind-If-You-Experience-DCS-Symptoms\" >Keep Patent Foramen Ovale In Mind If You Experience DCS Symptoms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#PFO-References\" >PFO References<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#About-The-Author\" >About The Author<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/#Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\" >Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding-Patent-Foramen-Ovale\"><\/span>Understanding Patent Foramen Ovale<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-Patent-Foramen-Oval\"><\/span><strong>What is Patent Foramen Oval?<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Patent Foramen Ovale is a condition where a small opening in the atrial septum, which exists in the fetal heart, fails to close after birth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This opening, called the <em>foramen ovale<\/em>, normally allows blood to bypass the fetal lungs but closes soon after birth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, in some individuals, it remains open, allowing a tiny amount of blood to shunt from the right atrium to the left atrium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"544\" height=\"460\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/PFO.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of a PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale)\" class=\"wp-image-25527\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/PFO.jpg 544w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/PFO-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/PFO-177x150.jpg 177w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 544px) 100vw, 544px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">PFO image from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/congenital-heart-defects\/about-congenital-heart-defects\/patent-foramen-ovale-pfo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Heart Association<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PFO is a condition where a small opening in the atrial septum, which exists in the fetal heart, fails to close after birth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Normally, this opening closes soon after birth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In some individuals it remains open, allowing a tiny amount of blood to shunt from the right atrium to the left atrium.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-2\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1335348860\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2393012471\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-PFO-Increases-DCS-Risk\"><\/span>How PFO Increases DCS Risk<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DCS-%E2%80%93-The-Formation-of-Bubbles\"><\/span>DCS &#8211; The Formation of Bubbles <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bubbles form during and after scuba diving ascents, similar to the bubbles in a carbonated beverage. Decompression sickness occurs when these bubbles produce symptoms. Even after normal decompression, <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">&#8220;silent&#8221; micro-bubbles<\/a> can form in venous blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bubbles form during and after scuba diving ascents, similar to the bubbles in a carbonated beverage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decompression sickness occurs when these bubbles produce symptoms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Even after normal decompression, &#8220;silent&#8221; <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">micro-bubbles<\/a> can form in venous blood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog wp-block-embed-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"5BQqNWVa3X\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">Micro-Bubbles When Scuba Diving: Mild Bends And Sub-Clinical DCS<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Micro-Bubbles When Scuba Diving: Mild Bends And Sub-Clinical DCS&#8221; &#8212; Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/embed\/#?secret=COt8zAg7ok#?secret=5BQqNWVa3X\" data-secret=\"5BQqNWVa3X\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog wp-block-embed-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"jnlBzZn9xZ\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">Types of Decompression Sickness (DCS)<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Types of Decompression Sickness (DCS)&#8221; &#8212; Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/embed\/#?secret=3XTVjg1AB3#?secret=jnlBzZn9xZ\" data-secret=\"jnlBzZn9xZ\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-Role-of-Patent-Foramen-Ovale-in-DCS\"><\/span>The Role of Patent Foramen Ovale in DCS<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Venous bubbles may be shunted through a PFO when they reach the right atrium. These bubbles can become arterialized, potentially causing symptoms if they lodge in the arterial supply to tissues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There isn&#8217;t a direct correlation between Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS, so the specific relationship remains unclear. It&#8217;s important to note that intrapulmonary shunts are common in most individuals, further complicating the connection between PFO and DCS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Venous bubbles may be shunted through a PFO when they reach the right atrium.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These bubbles can become arterialized, potentially causing symptoms if they lodge in the arterial supply to tissues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PFO-Increases-Overall-DCS-Risk\"><\/span>PFO Increases Overall DCS Risk<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Divers with PFO face a 2.5 times higher risk of DCS compared to those without a PFO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Specifically, they are four times more likely to experience neurological DCS, which affects the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-diving-stress-management-and-diver-panic\/\">nervous<\/a> system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>However, it&#8217;s crucial to note that the absolute incidence of neurological DCS in divers with PFO is estimated at 4.7 cases per 10,000 dives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Link-Between-PFO-and-Spinal-DCI\"><\/span>Link Between PFO and Spinal DCI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Studies have shown a significant correlation between Patent Foramen Ovale and spinal DCS.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The prevalence of large PFO in divers with spinal DCS is approximately 44 percent\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is it&#8217;s only 14.2 percent in divers without PFO.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Half of the divers with Patent Foramen Ovale-related DCI have a PFO with a diameter of one centimeter or larger,\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>This indicates that the greatest risk of DCI lies with those having the largest PFOs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approximately 6% of divers have a large PFO.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types-of-DCS-Associated-with-Patent-Foramen-Ovale\"><\/span>Types of DCS Associated with Patent Foramen Ovale<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PFO has been linked to various forms of DCS, including;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cerebral (affecting the brain)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/skin-bends-cutaneous-dcs-decompression-sickness\/\">Cutaneous DCS<\/a> (skin bends)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spinal (affecting the spinal cord)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/iedcs-inner-ear-dcs-decompression-sickness\/\">Inner-ear DCS<\/a> (IEDCS)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The strongest association exists between PFO and cutaneous and inner-ear DCS.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Approximately 74% of cases of inner-ear DCS present with isolated inner-ear symptoms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>80 percent of these cases have a large, spontaneously shunting PFO.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog wp-block-embed-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"vEjDxYvlzx\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/skin-bends-cutaneous-dcs-decompression-sickness\/\">Skin Bends: A Guide to Cutaneous Decompression Sickness<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Skin Bends: A Guide to Cutaneous Decompression Sickness&#8221; &#8212; Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/skin-bends-cutaneous-dcs-decompression-sickness\/embed\/#?secret=m1zqWGhnlv#?secret=vEjDxYvlzx\" data-secret=\"vEjDxYvlzx\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog wp-block-embed-andy-davis-sidemount-technical-wreck-diving-blog\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"2r0Yz7wJCi\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/iedcs-inner-ear-dcs-decompression-sickness\/\">Understanding Inner-Ear Decompression Sickness (IEDCS) for Divers<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Understanding Inner-Ear Decompression Sickness (IEDCS) for Divers&#8221; &#8212; Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/iedcs-inner-ear-dcs-decompression-sickness\/embed\/#?secret=g7vaGuizRy#?secret=2r0Yz7wJCi\" data-secret=\"2r0Yz7wJCi\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do-You-Have-a-PFO\"><\/span>Do You Have a PFO?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When divers learn about PFO, the first question they usually ask is whether they have one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PFO-Is-Typically-Asymptomatic\"><\/span>PFO Is Typically Asymptomatic <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Patent Foramen Ovale itself is usually asymptomatic. It has been associated with migraine with aura and cryptogenic stroke, but the evidence is conflicting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PFOs vary in size, ranging from 1 to 19 millimeters (0.04 to 0.75 inches). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They tend to be larger in older adults, possibly due to elevated right heart pressures as people age. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This can reduce the pressure difference between the left and right atrium, allowing PFOs to expand.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-Prevalence-of-PFO\"><\/span>The Prevalence of PFO <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PFO remains open, or patent, in about 25 to 34% of adults, with <strong>detectable shunting occurring in 8 to 10%<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Research conducted at the Mayo Clinic revealed that PFO prevalence is higher in younger individuals but levels off at around <strong>27% in the general population<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There are <strong>no significant differences in Patent Foramen Ovale prevalence between males and females in various age groups<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decompression sickness in divers is relatively rare:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> DCS incidence ranges from 0.01% to 0.095%.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Among divers with a known Patent Foramen Ovale, DCS incidence ranges from 0.5% to 1.8%.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-fitness-chart-dan-800x500-1.jpg\" alt=\"PFO Prevalence\" class=\"wp-image-25528\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-fitness-chart-dan-800x500-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-fitness-chart-dan-800x500-1-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-fitness-chart-dan-800x500-1-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-fitness-chart-dan-800x500-1-240x150.jpg 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">PFO Prevalence, Graphic from <a href=\"https:\/\/dan.org\/health-medicine\/health-resource\/health-safety-guidelines\/guidelines-for-patent-foramen-ovale-and-fitness\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DAN<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should-I-Get-Tested-for-a-PFO\"><\/span>Should I Get Tested for a PFO?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Routine screening for PFO in divers is not recommended. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-cutaneous manifestations of \u201cmild DCS\u201d or joint pain only DCS are not indications for PFO investigation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Screening is reasonable for high-risk individuals, such as those with migraines, congenital heart disease, or a family history of PFO. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Echocardiography with bubble contrast is the standard method for detection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-Importance-of-Proper-PFO-Testing\"><\/span>The Importance of Proper PFO Testing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is crucial to seek medical centers experienced in PFO testing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To accurately detect PFO, the testing must include bubble contrast, ideally combined with a trans-thoracic echocardiogram (TTE). \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Two-dimensional and color-flow echocardiography without bubble contrast won&#8217;t provide adequate results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provocation maneuvers are an essential part of the testing process. \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>These maneuvers, such as the Valsalva release or sniffing, help promote the identification of right-to-left shunt. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are performed when the right atrium is densely filled with bubble contrast.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-Does-a-Positive-PFO-Test-Mean\"><\/span>What Does a Positive PFO Test Mean?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A positive PFO test can have different implications based on the circumstances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If a spontaneous shunt is detected without provocation or if a large, provoked shunt occurs after a dive when venous gas emboli are present, it is considered a risk factor for certain forms of DCS. \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>These forms may involve cerebral, spinal, vestibulocochlear, or cutaneous manifestations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smaller shunts also exist but are associated with a lower and less defined risk of DCS. \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The significance of these minor shunts should be interpreted within the clinical context that led to the testing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s essential to note that detecting a Patent Foramen Ovale after experiencing DCS does not automatically imply that the PFO caused the condition. The relationship between PFO and DCS is complex and not always straightforward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-3\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1710374497\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6151212517\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding-Positive-PFO-Test-Results\"><\/span>Understanding Positive PFO Test Results<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Decision-Making Process<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>When a diver receives a positive PFO diagnosis that is likely associated with an increased risk of DCS, several options become available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s crucial to make informed decisions in consultation with a diving physician who specializes in diving medicine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your-Options-If-Diagnosed-With-PFO\"><\/span>Your Options If Diagnosed With PFO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You have three options if diagnosed with Patent Foramen Ovale; stop diving, dive more conservatively, or have the PFO surgically closed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1st-Option-Stop-Diving\"><\/span>1st Option: Stop Diving<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For some divers, the best choice might be to temporarily or permanently stop diving. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This decision depends on individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safety should always come first.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2nd-Option-Dive-More-Conservatively\"><\/span>2nd Option: Dive More Conservatively<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Another approach is to modify your diving practices to reduce the risk of significant venous bubble formation and subsequent right-to-left shunting of these bubbles across a PFO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Here are some strategies that may help:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reducing Dive Times:<\/strong> Stay well within accepted no-stop limits to minimize the risk of DCS.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Limiting Dives:<\/strong> Consider doing only one dive per day to reduce the overall exposure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/why-use-nitrox-diving-advantages-benefits\/\">Nitrox<\/a> Use:<\/strong> Utilize nitrox with air dive planning tools to lower the risk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Safety Stops:<\/strong> Extend your safety stop or decompression time at shallow stops.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Post-Dive Activities:<\/strong> Avoid heavy exercise, lifting, or straining for at least three hours after diving.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These strategies should be discussed with a diving medicine expert and tailored to your specific situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Opting for very conservative diving may be an option for recreational divers who only dive infrequently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3rd-Option-Close-the-PFO\"><\/span>3rd Option: Close the PFO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Closing the PFO is another option to consider, but it&#8217;s crucial to understand that this does not guarantee freedom from DCS in the future.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Percutaneous closure<\/strong> (a less-invasive surgical procedure) is not without risk and should be weighed against the individual&#8217;s DCS risk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This decision involves weighing the potential risks and benefits, considering your clinical history, and consulting with a medical expert experienced in diving medicine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patent Foramen Ovale closure may be suitable for dive professionals, technical divers, and recreational divers who are very active in diving.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-is-a-PFO-Closed\"><\/span>How is a PFO Closed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fixing a Patent Foramen Ovale involves <a href=\"https:\/\/www.news-medical.net\/health\/Percutaneous-Closure-Procedure.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">percutaneous closure<\/a>; a minimally invasive surgery on the heart, via a needle through the femoral vein in the thigh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Firstly, imaging is done using a combination of fluoroscopy and ultrasound, either TEE or intracardiac echo. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secondly, a device, such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cardiovascular.abbott\/us\/en\/hcp\/products\/structural-heart\/structural-interventions\/amplatzer-talisman.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amplatzer PFO Occluder,<\/a> is inserted to close the defect. \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It&#8217;s deployed through a small catheter across the PFO.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The entire procedure takes about an hour, typically allowing patients to go home the same day or the following morning.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-After-PFO-Closure\"><\/span>Diving After PFO Closure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Divers who have undergone PFO closure may return to diving after clearance by a cardiologist and a diving medicine specialist. Evidence suggests that closure may decrease DCS risk in divers with a history of DCS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A positive PFO test result doesn&#8217;t mean the end of your diving adventures, but it does require thoughtful consideration of your options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-4\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1418085566\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2954736365\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-Risk-Factors-for-DCS-with-PFO\"><\/span>Diving Risk Factors for DCS with PFO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>DCS risk is highest in dive profiles that evoke silent venous gas emboli. This risk increases if you&#8217;ve experienced multiple episodes of DCS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>DCS risk is highest in dive profiles that evoke silent venous gas emboli (microbubbles)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This risk is higher if you have had DCS previously.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Notable-Dive-Risk-Factors-With-PFO\"><\/span>Notable Dive Risk Factors With PFO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Long, deep dives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aggressive decompression protocols<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Omitted decompression<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rapid ascent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heavy work at depth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cold on decompression<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repetitive dives over multiple days<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Caution-for-Divers-with-PFO\"><\/span>Caution for Divers with PFO <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Divers who have experienced unexplained neurological DCS, <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">inner ear DCS<\/a>, or skin bends (cutis marmorata) and are found to have PFO should <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/technical-diving-experience-paradox\/\">be cautious<\/a> about returning to diving. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clearance to dive should be based on the judgment of a trained practitioner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep-Patent-Foramen-Ovale-In-Mind-If-You-Experience-DCS-Symptoms\"><\/span>Keep Patent Foramen Ovale In Mind If You Experience DCS Symptoms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, as a scuba diver, it&#8217;s essential to be informed about the potential risks associated with PFO and its connection to Decompression Sickness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While PFO is not a guaranteed ticket to DCS, it&#8217;s crucial to consider individual factors and seek expert advice when making decisions about diving with PFO or undergoing closure procedures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your safety and well-being underwater should always be a top priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-infographic-dan-1600x2133-1-1152x1536-1-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-25529\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-infographic-dan-1600x2133-1-1152x1536-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-infographic-dan-1600x2133-1-1152x1536-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-infographic-dan-1600x2133-1-1152x1536-1-113x150.jpg 113w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pfo-infographic-dan-1600x2133-1-1152x1536-1.jpg 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">PFO infographic from <a href=\"https:\/\/dan.org\/health-medicine\/health-resource\/health-safety-guidelines\/guidelines-for-patent-foramen-ovale-and-fitness\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DAN<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PFO-References\"><\/span>PFO References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/dan.org\/health-medicine\/health-resource\/health-safety-guidelines\/guidelines-for-patent-foramen-ovale-and-fitness\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DAN Guidelines for Patent Foramen Ovale and Diving<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ddrc.org\/diving\/can-i-dive\/can-i-dive-with-a-pfo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Can I dive with a PFO?<\/a> Diving Diseases Research Center (DDRC)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/gue.com\/blog\/almost-everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-patent-foramen-ovales-pfos-and-decompression-illness-but-were-too-busy-decompressing-to-ask\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Everything You Wanted To Know About PFOs and Decompression Illness, But Were Too Busy Decompressing to Ask<\/a>, <em>by Doug Ebersole M.D.<\/em> InDepth Magazine, Mar 2021<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Patent Foramen Ovale in Diving. Eric J. Hexdall;&nbsp;Jeffrey S. Cooper. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK431111\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">StatPearls Publishing<\/a>; 2023 Jan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fphys.2021.763408\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Increased Risk of Decompression Sickness When Diving With a Right-to-Left Shunt: Results of a Prospective Single-Blinded Observational Study (The \u201cCarotid Doppler\u201d Study)<\/a>. Germonpr\u00e9 et al. Front. Physiol., 29 October 2021 Sec. Environmental, Aviation and Space Physiology Volume 12 &#8211; 2021 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-content-justification-center is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium is-resized is-style-default\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"296\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png\" alt=\"Andy Davis Technical Sidemount Wreck Diving Subic Bay Philippines RAID Courses Training\" class=\"wp-image-6812\" style=\"width:225px;height:222px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-1024x1009.png 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-768x757.png 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1.png 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About-The-Author\"><\/span>About The Author<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"274\" height=\"77\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-27046\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png 274w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1-250x70.png 250w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 274px) 100vw, 274px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\">Andy Davis<\/a> is a <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/raid-diving-courses-philippines\/raid\/\">RAID<\/a>, PADI TecRec, ANDI, BSAC, and SSI-qualified independent <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/what-is-technical-diving\/\">technical diving<\/a> instructor who specializes in teaching <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/sidemount-courses\/\">sidemount<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">trimix<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">advanced wreck<\/a> diving courses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently residing in <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subic-bay-wreck-diving-sites\/\">Subic Bay, Philippines<\/a>; he has amassed more than 10,000 open-circuit and CCR dives over three decades of challenging diving across the globe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\">Andy<\/a> has published numerous diving magazine articles and designed advanced certification courses for several dive training agencies, He regularly tests and reviews new dive gear for scuba equipment manufacturers. Andy is currently writing a series of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/extras\">advanced diving books <\/a>and creating a range of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redbubble.com\/people\/andydavistech\/shop\">tech diving clothing and accessories<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prior to becoming a professional technical diving educator in 2006, Andy was a commissioned officer in the Royal Air Force and has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Belize, and Cyprus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2023, Andy was named in the &#8220;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/gue.com\/blog\/sidemount-andy-davies\/\" target=\"_blank\">Who&#8217;s Who of Sidemount<\/a>&#8221; list by GUE InDepth Magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-palette-color-7-color has-vivid-red-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-dd81a6de961563c5bf17302e4376cbd2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\"><\/span>Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233191\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gas Management For Scuba Divers Book\" class=\"wp-image-26264\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Become A Shearwater Power User Book\" class=\"wp-image-26382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-978x1536.jpg 978w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-95x150.jpg 95w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/111242\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-26656\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/262907\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A Comprehensive Guide to Backplate &amp; Wing BCDs\" class=\"wp-image-26808\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/260377\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Diving Psychology The Path to Proficiency: Mental Strategies for Scuba Divers (eBook)\" class=\"wp-image-26633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n<p id=\"rop\"><small>Originally posted 2023-09-15 16:46:28. <\/small><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What every scuba diver should know about PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) and DCS risk. Is your heart putting you at risk?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":25530,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2196],"tags":[2191,2192,2193,2195,2189,2190,2194],"class_list":["post-25524","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dcs-decompression-sickness","tag-how-does-a-pfo-increase-dcs-risk","tag-how-is-a-pfo-fixed-with-surgery","tag-how-pfo-is-diagnosed","tag-how-to-know-if-you-have-pfo","tag-patent-foramen-ovale-and-the-risk-of-decompression-sickness","tag-pfo-statistics-in-divers","tag-why-pfo-contributes-to-dcs-accidents"],"blocksy_meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>PFO - Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in Diving<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What every scuba diver should know about PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) and DCS risk. Is your heart putting you at risk?\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/pfo-patent-foramen-ovale-dcs-risk-diving\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"PFO - Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in Diving\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What every scuba diver should know about PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) and DCS risk. 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