Your ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement of the blood that your heart’s ventricle pumps out with each beat. Typically, your EF score refers to the left ventricle, because it is the primary pumping chamber. A healthy left ventricle should pump out between 50 and 75 percent of its blood with each contraction. A lower score could indicate the need for lifestyle changes or a more serious intervention.

Discovering Your Number

Most doctors use an echocardiogram to determine the ejection fraction of a ventricle. This noninvasive, painless procedure creates images of your heart, based on sound waves. An echocardiogram is a safe procedure that is often scheduled on a routine basis for at-risk patients. Other methods of discovering your EF could include:

• A computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan
• A multigated acquisition (MUGA) scan
• A cardiac catheterization
• A nuclear stress test

Understanding Your Score

A low score between 40 and 54 percent is a warning sign of some damage. However, serious concern begins at 39 percent or lower, which typically points to cardiomyopathy or heart failure. If your number is too high, at 76 percent or more, it could indicate hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

A normal score between 55 and 75 percent does not guarantee a healthy heart. In some cases, heart failure has occurred despite a healthy ejection fraction. This can happen when the heart muscle thickens and holds only a small amount of blood. Although the percentage seems normal, only a small amount of blood is being pumped out of the ventricle.

Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes a patient can bring his ejection fraction to a healthy percentage through natural methods and lifestyle changes. Regular exercise is the most effective way to achieve heart health, along with managing a nutritious diet that is low in sodium. Your doctor might also recommend a specific daily intake of water to keep your lungs healthy and your breathing easy.

Medical Interventions

Lifestyle changes won’t always be enough. Your doctor might prescribe medications to get your heart back to optimal health. Another option is inserting an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD), which functions similarly to a pacemaker and helps treat and prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

For more information about cardiac care at The Heart Institute at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, please visit our website or call our free Consult-A-Nurse® Healthcare Referral service at 1-800-446-6956.

Sources:

Ejection Fraction Heart Failure Measurement (American Heart Association)

What’s Your Ejection Fraction (EF)? (Heart Rhythm Society)

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