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Is Ejection Fraction Of 20% A Cause For Concern?
Question: Hi, I am a 50 year old woman and I was in the hospital for a few days because of my gall bladder. I had an echo done and I was told that my EF was 20%. I know that's pretty low but I do have an ICD. Should I be concerned that the % isn't higher.
Brief Answer:
Considerations
Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.
You are correct that and ejection fraction of 20% is regarded as low. What is important is the comparison of the most recent echocardiogram compare to your prior study. If you're ejection fraction has declined significantly in a short period of time this is more concerning.
An echocardiogram is not a perfect test. This is to say that it might not be a precise measurement of your ejection fraction. There are some other tests which can be done to better estimate the true ejection fraction. One of these tests is called a MUGA scan. this is a nuclear medicine test which has some more precision in regards to specifically to the ejection fraction.
Even with reduced ejection fraction, medications can be used to help optimize heart function and sometimes improve heart function over time. This generally occurs with the supervision of a cardiologist. I'm sure you're seeing a cardiologist on a regular basis since you have a history of a prior ICD placement.
I think what is most important is that you continue to follow along with your cardiologist. I would discuss the findings of the echocardiogram with him to see if he has any further suggestions on optimizing your cardiac health.
Thank you again for sending the question.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga
Considerations
Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.
You are correct that and ejection fraction of 20% is regarded as low. What is important is the comparison of the most recent echocardiogram compare to your prior study. If you're ejection fraction has declined significantly in a short period of time this is more concerning.
An echocardiogram is not a perfect test. This is to say that it might not be a precise measurement of your ejection fraction. There are some other tests which can be done to better estimate the true ejection fraction. One of these tests is called a MUGA scan. this is a nuclear medicine test which has some more precision in regards to specifically to the ejection fraction.
Even with reduced ejection fraction, medications can be used to help optimize heart function and sometimes improve heart function over time. This generally occurs with the supervision of a cardiologist. I'm sure you're seeing a cardiologist on a regular basis since you have a history of a prior ICD placement.
I think what is most important is that you continue to follow along with your cardiologist. I would discuss the findings of the echocardiogram with him to see if he has any further suggestions on optimizing your cardiac health.
Thank you again for sending the question.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
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