44%

With 44% heart function for congenital heart failure, what would be the correct percentage with no disease? How serious is 44% function at age 84 for women?


This discussion is related to Re: Ejection fraction ?.

[ed34]

Anywhere between 50 and 75%. I have no idea why such a large range, but apparently this is it. So, 44% isn't very much lower than 50%. I believe 35% and less is classed as CHF?

[kenkeith]

I believe you mean congested heart failure.  I know because I have that condtion (:  Congested heart failure is the result of weak heart contractions.  The congestion happens when the blood from the lungs that should be pumped into circulation, but weak contractions causes the blood to back up into the lungs and fluids leak into the lung tissues, and the symptoms would a dry cough, hyperventilation (feels like you are breathing through some obstruction).  For me there was some relief if not lying down but sitting up, and there can be shortness of breath and a fast heartbeat.

An EF below 29% is considered for insurance purposes to be in the heart failure range, but if the system is healthy otherwise there may not be any symptoms and a person can function normally....When I had CHF my EF with a cath was 13%.  

The EF is not a static measurement and it is an estimate. The variation of the EF helps maintain a balance of blood flow between the right and left side of the heart as does the heart rate and blood pressure. When the dilates that increases the EF and more blood in the system, and when there is no dilation there is less blood pumped into circulation....this would be the normal function.  

You should not experience any symptoms with an EF over 40%, but you would not be able to run a marathon :) however normal activities shouldn't be a problem. A good brisk walk daily would help you if you doctor recommends some aerobic exercise.  I have been involved with aerobic and resistant training for more than 7 years after my heart event.  The EF is now within the normal range.

Thanks for your questiobn, and if you have any further questions or comments you are welcome to respond.  Take care, I wish you well going forward.

Ken