Scripps Clinic cardiologist, Matthew Price, MD, explains how a hole in the heart is formed, what health risks can occur and what procedures can help close a hole in your heart to lower risk of stroke. Download your free heart guide: http://bit.ly/2Usj4aZ

1:02 What is a PFO?
1:46 How does a patent foramen ovale increase your chance of stroke?
2:18 If you have a PFO, at what age can you get a stroke?
2:43 What are the warning signs of a stroke?
3:16 How can you get tested for a PFO?
4:13 What is a cryptogenic stroke?
5:43 What is a PFO occluder?
7:04 How does the PFO occluder work?
9:36 If you've had a stroke, how effective is the PFO at preventing a recurring stroke?
10:58 Can you stop taking blood thinners for good if you have a PFO occluder?
12:02 Do PFO occluder discs need to be checked or changed?
12:41 What causes a cryptogenic stroke?
13:46 What are the pros and cons of blood thinners?
15:36 How many PFO occluders has Dr. Matthew Price implanted?