what is ejection fraction

3 min read 14-03-2025

Ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement, expressed as a percentage, that shows how well your heart is pumping blood. It's a vital indicator of your heart's health and function. Understanding your ejection fraction is crucial for managing heart conditions.

What Does Ejection Fraction Measure?

Your heart's left ventricle is the main pumping chamber. It receives oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and pumps it out to the rest of your body. Ejection fraction measures the percentage of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each contraction. A normal heart pumps out a significant amount of blood with each beat.

Calculating Ejection Fraction

Calculating ejection fraction involves measuring the amount of blood in the left ventricle before and after a contraction. The formula is:

(End-diastolic volume - End-systolic volume) / End-diastolic volume x 100%

End-diastolic volume: The amount of blood in the ventricle at the end of relaxation (filling).
End-systolic volume: The amount of blood remaining in the ventricle after contraction.

These measurements are typically obtained through echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart).

Normal Ejection Fraction Ranges

A normal ejection fraction is generally considered to be between 55% and 70%. However, this can vary slightly depending on age, sex, and overall health. Anything below 55% is often considered low. This doesn't automatically indicate a serious problem. However, it warrants further investigation by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions.

What Does a Low Ejection Fraction Mean?

A low ejection fraction, often referred to as reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), suggests that the heart isn't pumping blood as efficiently as it should. This can lead to various symptoms, including:

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during exertion.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
Swelling (edema): Fluid buildup in the legs, ankles, and feet.
Lightheadedness or dizziness: Feeling faint or unsteady.
Chest pain: Angina or discomfort in the chest.

A low EF is often associated with heart conditions like:

Heart failure: The heart's inability to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Coronary artery disease: Narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the heart.
Heart attack: Damage to the heart muscle due to blocked blood flow.
Cardiomyopathy: Diseases affecting the heart muscle.
Valve disease: Problems with the heart valves that impair blood flow.

What Does a High Ejection Fraction Mean?

While a low ejection fraction is more commonly discussed, a high ejection fraction (above 75%) can also indicate potential heart problems. This could suggest that the heart is working too hard to compensate for another issue. Further evaluation is often necessary to understand the underlying cause.

How is Ejection Fraction Measured?

The most common method for measuring ejection fraction is through an echocardiogram (echo). This non-invasive test uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. Other methods include:

Cardiac MRI: A more detailed imaging technique that provides more precise measurements.
Radionuclide ventriculography: An invasive procedure involving injecting a radioactive tracer to track blood flow. This is used less frequently now due to the availability of less invasive techniques.

What to Do if You Have Concerns About Your Ejection Fraction

If you have concerns about your ejection fraction or are experiencing symptoms of heart problems, it's crucial to consult your doctor. They can perform the necessary tests, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes.

Maintaining a Healthy Ejection Fraction

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for supporting your heart's health and ejection fraction. This includes:

Regular exercise: Engaging in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise most days of the week.
Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and cholesterol.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on the heart.
Stress management: Finding healthy ways to cope with stress.
Quitting smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.
Managing other health conditions: Effectively managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can significantly reduce heart risks.

Understanding your ejection fraction is a crucial step in managing your heart health. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can help keep your heart strong and functioning optimally. Remember to always consult a medical professional for any health concerns.