A normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is between 55% and 70%. This means that your heart is pumping out a healthy amount of blood with each beat.
Understanding LVEF:
- LVEF measures how much blood your left ventricle pumps out with each beat.
- The left ventricle is the main pumping chamber of your heart.
- An LVEF of 55% to 70% indicates that your heart is functioning well.
Factors Affecting LVEF:
- Age: LVEF naturally decreases slightly with age.
- Heart health: Conditions like heart failure can lower LVEF.
- Lifestyle: Factors like smoking and lack of exercise can impact LVEF.
Interpreting LVEF:
- Below 55%: May indicate heart problems.
- Above 70%: Typically considered normal, but can be a sign of a hypertrophic heart.
Note: LVEF is just one factor in assessing heart health. Your doctor will consider other factors like symptoms, medical history, and other tests to provide a complete diagnosis.