Ejection fraction

[James82831]

I have heart disease.  I have had bypass surgery twice; most recently in1988.  I have no knowledge of ever having a MI.  In general I have done reasonably well.  My ejection fraction is 30%.  Nothwithstanding the low fraction, I seem to do reasonably well.  I do get tired if I put in seveal hours of physical work on a given day, mostly yard work, etc.  I walk about 1/2 hour each day.

My question is, what can I do to improve my ejection fraction?  Will more exercise do it at my age (79)?  Will more physical exertion to get my heart rate up improve the fraction?  I do guard against getting my heart rate up to were I get some mild angina.  I also watch my diet religiously.

[kenkeith]

I wish you well going forward.  Thanks for your response.

[James82831]

Good to hear you increased your EF so much.  Good  job.

[kenkeith]

If you don't have any heart muscle damage, akinesis, or heart walls aren't abnormally thickened, etc., exercise could help increase your heart contractions; it really depends on the underlying cause for the low EF.

Before engaging it any serious exercise regimen, you should inform your doctor and consult for his or her recommendations.  I increased my EF 29% 6 years to 59% currently with medication, exercis and proper diet, etc.

Thanks for the question and if you have any followup questions you are welcome to respond.  Take care.