Echocardiogram result

I've just had the result of my echocardiogram. It doesn't sound too bad: the valves are ok, apart from some mitral valve regurgitation which was described as "insignificant". The aorta is ok. The ejection fraction is down from last time (2 years ago) but is described as low-normal at 50-55%. The fly in the ointment-there always is one- is that that there is some hypokinesis of the lateral wall relating to a segment near the apex. I asked what this meant and was told that is could mean either that the heart had been under some strain, or there had been an infection (I hope that I didn't hear incorrectly and they actually said "infarction"), or it could be due to some restriction of the blood supply to the area. I've been googling for this, but haven't been able to find out much more. If anyone knows anything about it or has it, comments would be gratefully received..

[jeanjeannie50]

At my last echocardiogram I was told that I had a slightly leaky mitral valve, but as we get older a lot of people have that. It wasn't considered anything of significance either.

Re the hypokinesis, sorry I know nothing about that.

I wonder if people on the BHF forum on Health Unlocked would know more.

healthunlocked.com/bhf

Jean

[Hidden in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Good idea! Thanks for replying.

[etheral]

Hi, the area of apical hypokenisis most likely caused by an infarction ( small heart attack caused by lack of blood flow to the tissue or a blockage in the Coronary artery that perfuses this area without death of tissue. An arteriogram would show the blockage and determine the need for a Stent or other procedure to restore proper blood flow. Your cardiologist should be able to determine the best way to proceed. If you are getting chest pain or heaviness or jaw or arm pain with exertion or shortness of breath you should be evaluated in A+ E. Best, etheral