Migraine & PFO

I have had unexplained dizzy spells and complex migraines for a little over 10 years. I had a time with simple partial seizures also. Nothing can be explained other than abnormal EEG's and a PFO discovery. I have also tried many medicines. Topamax, Lamictal, clozemapam, Pamelor, (all as preventatives) & other directed migraine pain meds. My body did not act with any of them well. I was diagnosed with a PFO in July of this past year. They tried Beta Blockers at that time & it has made a world of difference. I still get them, but nothing like they were. I am a full time working Mom with a 6 year old and 15 month old twin girls and a wonderful husband. I try to hide all the discomfort, pain, & disappointment that comes with all these issues, but it is very hard sometimes.

I have not had a stroke like many of you had, a possible TIA in 2006, an unexplained very small white spot in MRI, so I don't think it was if they don't know. I also have a lot of chest pain with my episodes, they think it is muscles contracting with as much migraines that I get..... but again, the beta blockers are helping.

Also, does anyone know what the measurements of a PFO stand for? My measurements were 18mm interatrial septum, 1 cm supra aortic rim, and 0.5cm caval rim. In Lehman's terms, what is the actual size of the hole??

It seems there is a lot of controversy on the whole PFO & migraines. Do you think they are directly involved?


I stand confused.

I can only speak for the trials done over here in England, and it turned out to be a bit of a red herring.
Closure was said to help only those with aura, but even then after some blind trials it seemed more of a coincidence/placebo result.
They dont seem to have taken it any further, but as I dont have aura, I may be wrong there...

Here is the trial info...


http://www.migraine.org.uk/index.php?sectionid=112

Pen