Here's what it means:
* Left Ventricle: The left ventricle is the powerhouse of your heart, responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the rest of your body.
* Ejection Fraction: This refers to the percentage of blood that your left ventricle ejects with each beat. A healthy heart pumps out a significant portion of its blood with each contraction.
* Stress Test: A stress test, typically involving exercise or medication, simulates the physical demands your heart might experience during daily activities. This allows doctors to observe how your heart functions under pressure.
Why is LVEF important?
A low LVEF indicates that your left ventricle is not pumping as efficiently as it should. This can be a sign of:
* Heart Failure: The heart isn't able to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
* Coronary Artery Disease: Blockages in the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle.
* Heart Valve Problems: Problems with heart valves can affect the efficiency of blood flow.
* Other Heart Conditions: Such as cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle).
What does LVEF range indicate?
* Normal LVEF: 55% - 70%
* Mildly Reduced LVEF: 40% - 55%
* Moderately Reduced LVEF: 30% - 40%
* Severely Reduced LVEF: Less than 30%
Important Note: Your doctor will consider your individual medical history and other test results when interpreting your LVEF.
If you have any concerns about your LVEF or other cardiac health issues, please consult with your physician for personalized advice.