A heart function of 40 is considered a reduced left ventricle (LV) ejection fraction, which is categorized as bad according to the American Heart Association.
Understanding Ejection Fraction
Ejection fraction (EF) is a key measurement used to assess how well your heart is pumping blood. Specifically, it measures the percentage of blood that's pumped out of your left ventricle (LV) with each heartbeat. A healthy LV ejection fraction is essential for delivering enough oxygen and nutrients to the body.
Normal vs. Reduced Ejection Fraction
The American Heart Association provides the following categories for LV ejection fraction:
| Ejection Fraction | Category |
|---|---|
| 50% - 70% | Normal |
| 41% - 49% | Mildly Reduced |
| 40% or Less | Reduced (Bad) |
As you can see, an LV ejection fraction of 40% falls into the reduced category, which signifies that the heart is not pumping as efficiently as it should.
Implications of a Reduced Ejection Fraction
A reduced ejection fraction can result from various conditions such as:
- Heart failure
- Cardiomyopathy
- Heart valve problems
This condition can lead to symptoms like:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs and feet
It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management of a reduced ejection fraction.
