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Is Ejection Fraction Of 25% A Cause For Concern?
I have congestive heart failure. I take medication for it, and I don t drink, smoke or use drugs. I walk at least ten miles per day and my diet is pretty good. I have been losing weight and continue to do so. Three months ago I moved from Copper Mountain, Colorado, elevation 9,600 feet above sea level to El Paso, Texas which is under 4,000 feet above sea level. My heart was in critical condition when I was diagnosed with the disease six years ago, and my ejection fraction was 25%. Last year it was up to 45%. I feel that the lower altitude has made breathing easier, and probably puts less strain on my heart. I am a 42 year old male. I am wondering if there is a chance that I could beat heart failure? What would you say my life expectancy is, based on my stats and diagnosis? Thank you for your time. -Andrew Finley
Tue, 17 Jan 2017
Hi,
Yes, you feel better in low altitude regions as your heart has to work less to oxygenate your body due to good O2 pressure in the atmosphere. There is nothing that can be guessed about life expectancy depending on EF.
However, with good life style and medications, the life expectancy should not be grossly lesser than a normal individual. Most of the medicines in heart failure aims at improving the quality of life, rather than prolonging the life. To answer your point, you appear in good shape and should have a good quality of life. All the best.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Vaddadi Suresh
Yes, you feel better in low altitude regions as your heart has to work less to oxygenate your body due to good O2 pressure in the atmosphere. There is nothing that can be guessed about life expectancy depending on EF.
However, with good life style and medications, the life expectancy should not be grossly lesser than a normal individual. Most of the medicines in heart failure aims at improving the quality of life, rather than prolonging the life. To answer your point, you appear in good shape and should have a good quality of life. All the best.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Vaddadi Suresh
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