A normal ejection fraction (EF) is generally considered to be between 50% and 70%. This measurement indicates how well your heart pumps blood with each beat. Different sources may offer slightly varying ranges, sometimes specifying separate ranges for men and women, but this core range remains consistent.
Understanding Ejection Fraction
Ejection fraction measures the percentage of blood leaving your heart's left ventricle (the main pumping chamber) with each contraction. A higher percentage indicates a stronger, more efficient pump.
Several sources provide specific ranges for a normal EF:
- American Heart Association & Mayo Clinic: State a normal left ventricle (LV) ejection fraction is approximately 50% to 70%. A mildly reduced EF is considered to be between 41% and 49%.
- Cleveland Clinic: While not explicitly stating a range, it emphasizes that a healthy heart possesses a normal ejection fraction.
- Other sources suggest ranges such as 55% to 75%, 52% to 72% for men and 54% to 74% for women. These slight variations likely reflect different methodologies or populations studied.
It's crucial to note that an ejection fraction alone doesn't fully diagnose heart health. A doctor considers this value alongside other factors to reach a complete assessment. An EF below 40% often suggests heart failure, though this isn't always the case.
