The ejection fraction measures the heart's ability to pump blood, with a lower fraction indicating inadequate blood flow to the body. There are two types: left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF). LVEF measures blood pumped from the left heart to the body. Low LVEF results from left heart muscle damage, leading to symptoms like confusion, fatigue, heart palpitations, nausea, shortness of breath, water retention, and tiredness.
Methods to measure ejection fraction include echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, cardiac computed tomography, heart MRI scan, and multigated acquisition scan. To improve ejection fraction, doctors may recommend the patient be at complete rest, maintain a healthy weight, limit sodium and fluid intake, and avoid smoking and alcohol.
Symptoms such as cardiac tamponade, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, and high blood pressure, alongside low ejection fraction, can lead to heart failure. Improvement in symptoms doesn't always mean improved ejection fraction; seeking medical advice is crucial if experiencing symptoms like dizziness, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, or sudden weight changes.