HEART DISEASE EXPERT FORUM
Can you have a normal heart size and an EF of <30%

Can you have a normal heart size and an EF of &lt;30%

I just received a copy of my echo and it stated that my left ventricle was normal size and that there is  moderate global hypokinesis of the left ventricle and that my EF is 30%. I thought that as the percentage goes down the heart gets bigger? I must be wrong...

I figure I should add some more information:
I am 38 I was diagnosis with DCM at 23 years old, I had my first and only heart attack at 23. I had an EF of 47% by cath and it stayed that way for years. I since developed alot of rhythm problems: V-Tach, A-Fib and sometimes over 6-8 thousand PVC per day. I have had 4 ablations 3 cardiac caths (arteries are nice and clear) I have prinzmetal angina for which I take a Nitro-patch for. The above echo was done due to abdominal swelling and a 12lb weight gain in less than 1 week. I was given lasix by IV at the docs office (had to make a mad dash for the house, if you know what I mean Smiley
My last echo showed valve leakage and a high pulmonary pressure, and mild dilation and the EF was 35 - 45%. Not really sure what all this could mean but any feedback would be nice. This is my first post and I plan to become a very active member on this board. I have alot of researched knowledge and I read alot of medical journals (use to work in research as a biological tech) I also have a defibrillator that tells my doc that I am retaining water...how cool is that :) I also have a portacath in my chest because I receive Iron infusion for my blood disorder.

Good example I am also a diabetic and through research I found out that my A!C (blood test that is suppose to tell you how your blood glucose have been holding up for the last 3 months) will never be accurate...I have beta thallesemia minor which means my red blood cells don't stick around for the normal 120 days...which the A1C depends on. Ha you find something new every day.

If anyone ever wanna talk to me about their medical problems or what ever makes you feel better feel free to message me
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1621443_tn?1299329512
Thank you for the post. Patients with congestive heart failure can over time retain fluid. As the heart retains fluid, it will get slightly bigger. This starts a cycle in which the heart valves begin to leak slightly causing the retention of more fluid. This cycle continues and the heart gets larger.

Luckily, the past decade has seen advances in heart care. Medicines such as beta blockers, ace inhibitors and aldosterone antagonist can slow this cycle.
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