ejection factor of 20%

Hi
one of my close relatives just had a very serious hear attck 9first one) and has an ejection factor of 20% (i think from the left side of his heart). How critical is this factor? Is there way to increase this by medication?
thanks
- Dig

[Dr J Singh]

Hi,
The ejection fraction which you have mentioned is definitely low and depicts a gross damage of the cardiac muscle and thus resulting in such a low EF. There are medications to improve the EF like digoxin but more important is to offload the heart by using drugs which ensure that there’s no fluid overload and simultaneously treating any co-existent ailments like hypertension. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care.