Ejection fraction (EF) measures how well the heart pumps blood.
What Is Ejection Fraction?
Ejection fraction (EF) is a way to measure how well yourheartpumps blood.
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But it doesnt push out all the blood inside itonly a portion.
That portion is your ejection fraction.
This measurement focuses on the left ventricle, the hearts main pumping chamber.
A higher ejection fractionup to a certain pointmeans the heart is pumping well.
A lower ejection fraction may mean the heart isnt pumping enoughbloodto keep up with the body’s needs.
Left vs. Use the chart below to interpret your ejection fraction report.
Some people developheart failuredespite a normal EF, known as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
As a result, the total amount of blood reaching the body falls short of what it needs.
How Is Ejection Fraction Calculated?
If the heart isnt pumping efficiently, the body may not get enough oxygen-rich blood to function properly.
This can lead to fatigue, swelling, andshortness of breath.
A change in ejection fraction can indicate whether a condition is improving, worsening, or staying the same.
Ejection fraction is also important for people recovering from aheart attackor managing heart disease.
It helps determine the best treatment approach, including medications, lifestyle changes, or medical procedures.
Causes of an Abnormal EF
The heart needs strong, healthy muscle to pump blood effectively.
To compensate, the heart may enlarge (cardiac dilation) to hold more blood and maintain normal output.
This process, called remodeling, is the hearts way of trying to keep up.
But as heart function worsens, circulation problems and heart strain can trigger more serious issues.
Yes, ejection fraction can improve and sometimes return to normal, depending on the underlying cause.
With proper treatment and management, the heart may regain strength and pump more efficiently.
A combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes can help strengthen the heart and enhance its pumping ability.
Summary
Ejection fraction (EF) measures how well the heart pumps blood with each beat.
Healthcare providers check EF using tests like echocardiograms and MRIs to find the best treatment.
Regular check-ups help catch problems early and keep the heart strong.
American Heart Association.Ejection fraction heart failure measurement.
Harvard Health Publishing.Measuring ejection fraction.
Mass General Brigham.Cardiomegaly (enlarged heart): symptoms and causes.
American Heart Association.Types of heart medications.
American Heart Association.Devices and surgical procedures to treat heart failure.
American Heart Association.How can I improve my low ejection fraction?.
