PFOs may not cause any symptoms. You may never know you have a PFO unless you are screened for another heart problem or experience a complication of a PFO.A patent foramen ovale is a small, flaplike opening in the wall between the upper chambers of the heart. This hole may let blood flow between the atria. PFO often has no symptoms. If you have a patent foramen ovale, this type of echocardiogram usually shows blood moving between the upper heart chambers. Patent foramen ovale symptoms manifest as migraines, shortness of breath when getting up and standing, and a higher risk for certain kinds of strokes. Some adults with PFOs also suffer from migraine headaches. See a healthcare provider right away if you are having any symptoms of stroke. Sometimes symptoms do result from the complications of a PFO, such as stroke.