What does a decreased ejection fraction typically indicate?

A decreased ejection fraction is an important clinical marker that typically indicates impaired left ventricular function. Ejection fraction refers to the percentage of blood that is pumped out of the ventricles with each heartbeat, and it is an essential measure of the heart's efficiency and effectiveness in circulating blood.

When ejection fraction is decreased, it suggests that the left ventricle is not contracting effectively, which can occur in various conditions such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or after a myocardial infarction (heart attack). This impaired function can lead to inadequate blood supply to various organs, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.

In contrast, a normal ejection fraction typically reflects good heart function, an increased heart rate does not directly correlate with ejection fraction alone, and improved cardiac output would not be associated with decreased ejection fraction since lower ejection fractions usually suggest reduced capacity for the heart to pump blood effectively. Understanding the significance of ejection fraction is crucial for assessing and managing cardiovascular health.