What Can You Do to Improve Your Ejection Fraction?

Some people in this community have a low ejection fraction (EF). And we often receive questions like, "How do I improve my ejection fraction when it is low?"

The good news is, there are strategies you can try to improve your ejection fraction. Here's what you need to know.

What is ejection fraction?

Ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement used to assess how well your heart is pumping blood. It represents the percentage of blood pumped out of your heart's chambers (ventricles) with each heartbeat. A normal ejection fraction typically ranges from 50 to 70 percent. When EF is lower than 50 percent, it may indicate reduced heart function.¹

How do you increase your ejection fraction?

Increasing your ejection fraction depends on identifying and addressing the specific heart condition causing the low EF. Treatment strategies may vary based on whether the low EF is due to conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or other factors. The following are some general approaches that may be considered.

Medications

Medications are essential for improving ejection fraction. Diuretics help remove excess water from the body, reducing congestion. Vasodilators lower blood pressure, easing strain on the heart. Inotropic drugs, like digoxin and dobutamine, strengthen the heart's pumping ability. Other drugs prescribed by healthcare providers can also contribute to improving ejection fraction, tailored to individual needs and conditions.²

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, reducing salt intake, restricting your fluid intake, and engaging in regular exercise are crucial for improving ejection fraction.^3,4

Consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian can provide personalized tips for a heart-healthy diet. Additionally, regular physical activity strengthens the heart muscle and enhances overall cardiovascular function, which may lead to gradual improvements in ejection fraction.^3,4

Treatment of underlying conditions

Valve disease can greatly impact ejection fraction, but surgical repair or valve replacement can enhance it by improving blood flow through the heart.² Similarly, arrhythmias that cause irregular heart rates can be treated with devices like pacemakers or ICDs, which help regulate rhythm and improve pumping efficiency.²

Conditions like atrial fibrillation may benefit from medicines or interventions such as ablation to restore normal heart rhythm.²

Identifying and addressing the specific underlying causes of low ejection fraction are essential for developing a targeted treatment plan that effectively improves overall heart function.^2,4

Cardiac rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation programs are structured to enhance cardiovascular health through supervised exercise, education, and lifestyle modification. By improving heart muscle strength, endurance, and overall cardiovascular function, these programs can potentially lead to increased ejection fraction. Consistent participation in cardiac rehabilitation under medical supervision may contribute to better heart pumping efficiency and overall heart health.^4,5

Surgical interventions

As noted above, if you have heart valve disease, replacement or repair of the valve can help. In cases of blockages in the coronary arteries (Coronary Artery Disease), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can be beneficial in improving ejection fraction. Conditions such as cardiomyopathy or congenital heart defects may also benefit from specific heart surgeries tailored to each condition.^6,7

Each of these surgical interventions has the potential to improve ejection fraction. For some individuals with severe heart disease, a heart transplant represents the final surgical option when other treatments are no longer effective.^6,7

You can improve your ejection fraction

Receiving a diagnosis of heart failure and low ejection fraction can be daunting. However, there are actionable steps you can take to improve both your ejection fraction and overall quality of life.

It all starts with discussing your options with your cardiologist. By exploring tailored treatments and making lifestyle changes, you can proactively manage your condition and enhance your heart health, paving the way for a better quality of life.