Can the heart ejection fraction be improved 2024?

As a healthcare professional with a focus on cardiovascular health, I understand the importance of addressing the heart's ejection fraction, which is a crucial measure of the heart's ability to pump blood. The heart ejection fraction (EF) is the percentage of blood that the heart's left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. A normal EF is generally considered to be between 55% and 70%. When the EF is below this range, it indicates that the heart is not efficiently pumping blood.

Improving the heart ejection fraction is possible through a combination of lifestyle changes, medical interventions, and in some cases, surgical procedures. Here are some of the key strategies that can be employed to enhance the EF:


1. Limit Salt Intake: Reducing dietary sodium can help lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart. The American Heart Association recommends limiting salt intake to 2,000 mg a day, which is about one teaspoon of table salt. This is particularly important for individuals with heart failure, as they may have an impaired ability to regulate sodium levels.


2. Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity is beneficial for overall cardiovascular health and can specifically help to strengthen the heart muscles. Exercise increases the heart's efficiency and can improve its pumping capacity. It is essential, however, to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially if you have a low EF.


3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can put additional strain on the heart, making it harder for it to pump blood effectively. Losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help to reduce this strain and improve EF.


4. Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and high cholesterol are significant risk factors for heart disease. Medications, along with lifestyle changes, can help to manage these conditions and protect the heart.


5. Take Medications as Prescribed: Certain medications can help improve the heart's pumping ability. Diuretics can reduce fluid buildup and lower blood pressure, while ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers can improve the heart's function and reduce symptoms of heart failure.


6. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: Both alcohol and smoking can have detrimental effects on the heart. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption and to quit smoking to improve heart health.

7.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a negative impact on heart health. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help to reduce stress levels and promote a healthier heart.

8.
Regular Monitoring and Follow-ups: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the heart's function and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

9.
Surgical Interventions: In some cases, surgical procedures such as a heart transplant or the implantation of a ventricular assist device may be considered for individuals with severely impaired heart function.

It is important to note that while these strategies can help improve the heart's ejection fraction, the extent of improvement can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may see significant improvements, while others may experience only modest changes. The key is to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan that addresses the specific needs and conditions of the individual.

Limit Salt -C Limiting salt (sodium) to 2,000 mg a day is an important part of maintaining a healthy heart and treating heart failure. With a low EF , your kidneys get less blood than they should. ... Exercise Regularly -C Exercise can help strengthen your heart and improve how well it pumps blood to the rest of the body.