what is a normal ef

3 min read 10-03-2025

Your heart is a tireless worker, pumping blood throughout your body. A key measure of its efficiency is the ejection fraction (EF). This article will explain what a normal EF is, what it means for your heart health, and what to do if your EF is outside the normal range.

What is Ejection Fraction?

Ejection fraction is the percentage of blood your heart pumps out of the left ventricle (the heart's main pumping chamber) with each contraction. It's a crucial indicator of how well your heart is functioning. A healthy heart efficiently pumps a significant portion of blood with each beat.

What is Considered a Normal Ejection Fraction?

A normal ejection fraction generally falls between 55% and 70%. Anything below 55% is considered low, while anything above 70% doesn't necessarily indicate a problem, though it could sometimes indicate other underlying cardiac conditions that should be investigated. However, it's important to note that the exact normal range can vary slightly depending on the individual and the measuring method used.

Important Note: While 55-70% is a commonly cited range, your doctor will consider your individual health history and other factors when interpreting your EF.

How is Ejection Fraction Measured?

Ejection fraction is typically measured using an echocardiogram (ECHO). This non-invasive ultrasound test provides detailed images of your heart and allows doctors to assess the size and function of the chambers, including the left ventricle. Other methods, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) or radionuclide ventriculography, can also measure EF.

What Does a Low Ejection Fraction Mean?

A low ejection fraction (below 55%) suggests that your heart isn't pumping blood as effectively as it should. This can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in your legs and ankles. Low EF is often associated with heart failure, but other conditions can also cause it.

Causes of Low Ejection Fraction:

Heart attack: Damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack can weaken its pumping ability.
Heart valve disease: Problems with the heart valves can impede blood flow and reduce EF.
Cardiomyopathy: Diseases that affect the heart muscle itself can cause weakening and reduced EF.
High blood pressure: Long-term high blood pressure can strain the heart and lead to lower EF.
Congenital heart defects: Some birth defects can affect the heart's structure and function.

What Does a High Ejection Fraction Mean?

While a high EF (above 70%) is generally not considered a problem, it can sometimes indicate a problem. It's less common than low EF but may suggest underlying conditions that need further investigation.

Potential Causes of High Ejection Fraction:

Athletic heart: Highly trained athletes often have higher EFs due to increased heart muscle strength.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A thickening of the heart muscle can increase EF, but this condition can be serious.
Other less common conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause an abnormally high EF.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, or swelling in your legs and ankles, you should consult a doctor immediately. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and determine if further testing, such as an echocardiogram, is needed to evaluate your ejection fraction and overall heart health.

Understanding Your Ejection Fraction: Taking Control of Your Heart Health

Your ejection fraction is a valuable tool for monitoring your heart health. While a normal EF within the 55-70% range generally indicates good heart function, it's crucial to consult your doctor for proper interpretation and to understand what the results mean in relation to your overall health. They can explain your individual results and recommend appropriate management strategies. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking, is crucial for maintaining optimal heart health.