When your heart is pumping at 35%, it means your heart's pumping ability is severely below normal. This is determined by a measurement called the ejection fraction (EF).
Understanding Ejection Fraction (EF)
Ejection fraction is a percentage that represents how much blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. A normal EF is generally between 55% and 70%.
Ejection Fraction Ranges & What They Indicate:
| Ejection Fraction (EF) | Interpretation | Possible Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 55% to 70% | Normal | Healthy heart function. |
| 35% to 39% | Moderately below normal | Heart failure with reduced EF (HF-rEF) may be present. |
| Less than 35% | Severely below normal | Significant impairment in heart function, potentially indicating severe heart failure. |
Therefore, an ejection fraction of 35% indicates a significant problem with the heart's ability to effectively pump blood to the body. Further investigation by a cardiologist is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
