normal ejection fraction of heart

2 min read 11-03-2025

Your heart is a tireless worker, constantly pumping blood throughout your body. A key measure of its efficiency is the ejection fraction (EF). This article explains what ejection fraction is, what a normal ejection fraction is considered to be, and what variations might indicate.

What is Ejection Fraction?

Ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement, expressed as a percentage, of how much blood your heart pumps out with each contraction. It's a vital indicator of your heart's pumping ability. During each heartbeat, your heart's ventricles (the lower chambers) fill with blood. The EF represents the proportion of this blood that's successfully pumped out into your body during each contraction. A higher EF generally indicates a stronger, more efficient heart.

What is a Normal Ejection Fraction?

A normal ejection fraction generally ranges from 55% to 70%. However, this is a guideline, and some healthy individuals may have EFs slightly outside this range. Factors like age, activity level, and overall health can influence this number. It's crucial to interpret EF within the context of a person's overall health profile.

Factors Affecting Ejection Fraction

Several factors can influence your ejection fraction, including:

Age: EF tends to slightly decrease with age.
Heart Conditions: Conditions like heart failure, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy can significantly reduce EF.
Physical Fitness: Regular exercise often leads to a higher EF.
Genetics: Family history of heart conditions might influence EF.

What Does a Low Ejection Fraction Mean?

A low ejection fraction (generally below 55%) often indicates that your heart isn't pumping as efficiently as it should. This can be a sign of underlying heart problems. A severely reduced EF might lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles.

This is not a diagnosis. A low EF necessitates a thorough evaluation by a cardiologist. They will conduct further tests to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will focus on addressing the root problem and improving the heart's pumping function.

What Does a High Ejection Fraction Mean?

While a low EF is more commonly concerning, a very high EF (significantly above 70%) can also indicate potential issues. A persistently high EF might suggest hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or other conditions impacting the heart muscle's structure and function. Further evaluation may be needed if your doctor identifies a high EF.

How is Ejection Fraction Measured?

Ejection fraction is typically measured using one of two methods:

Echocardiogram (Echo): This is a non-invasive ultrasound test that provides detailed images of your heart's structure and function. It's the most common way to measure EF.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR): This advanced imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of your heart. It’s often used when more precise information is needed than an echo can provide.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Ejection Fraction?

It’s crucial to consult your doctor for interpretation of your EF. A single measurement doesn’t tell the whole story. They’ll consider your overall health, symptoms (or lack thereof), and other test results to make an assessment. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns you have about your heart health with your physician.

Conclusion

Understanding your ejection fraction is an important part of maintaining good heart health. While a normal ejection fraction is generally between 55% and 70%, individual variations exist. Regular check-ups, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease, are essential for monitoring your heart health and managing any potential issues promptly. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and interpretation of your ejection fraction. They can provide guidance based on your specific health situation and help you take appropriate steps to maintain optimal cardiovascular health.