When your heart is working at 45%, specifically referring to an ejection fraction (EF) of 45%, it indicates that the heart may not be pumping blood as efficiently as it should. While not definitively indicating heart failure, it's a cause for concern and further investigation.
Understanding Ejection Fraction
Ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement of how much blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. A normal EF is generally considered to be between 55% and 70%.
| Ejection Fraction Range | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 55% - 70% | Normal |
| 41% - 49% | Potentially too low; may indicate damage or underlying heart condition. Does not always indicate heart failure. |
| Below 40% | May be evidence of heart failure or cardiomyopathy. |
Potential Implications of a 45% Ejection Fraction
According to the reference, an EF in the range of 41% to 49% "might be considered too low." This situation suggests a few possibilities:
- Heart Damage: It "could indicate damage, perhaps from a previous heart attack."
- Underlying Heart Condition: It may signal an underlying heart condition that requires diagnosis and management.
- Reduced Blood Supply: The heart might not be pumping enough oxygen-rich blood to meet the body's needs, potentially causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or swelling in the legs and ankles.
What to Do
If your heart is working at 45%, further evaluation is needed. Your doctor will likely order tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan. The treatment plan might include medications, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, more invasive procedures.
