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declining ejection fraction
by mclewis, Jun 12, 2008 08:22PM
My concern is determining the cause[s] of the decline in EF. I am a 55 yr old female and had an EF of 60 in January 07 but 50 in May 08. I can bike 2 hours 2x aweek but have developed breathing problems. The allergist gave me asmanex and a rescue inhaler. I also have some fatigue and seem to compensate by drinking caffeinated beverages. I take 25 mg generic toprol XL for hypertension and to control my heart beat -- I had an episode of SVT 2 years ago. I have been on medication for hypertension since my mid-20s. Is it normal for EF to decline by this magnitude in such a short period? The echo does not seem to indicate any major problems -- mitral value reguritation is moderate. What would you recommend? I am very concerned about identifying the causes so I can prevent further decline.
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Mine EF was 72% in 2006 with a FS of 40%
This year went down to a EF of 53% and a FS of 27%.
I was told that as long as your EF was within the normal range 55-75 % within the statistical margin of error then you were ok and not to worry about it.
I also have the same question as you though. I did not follow threw to see a cardiologist because I didn't think it was necessary.
As far as the MVR, I don't know. Did you see a cardiologist for this or your regular Doctor? Did you have a stress then an ecko a couple months later or ?
I hope one of the other more qualified people on here can help you. I'm sure someone else can answer you better than I. Take care.