Heart Failure And Moving Forward

[capbiker]

I am new here, but not new with the Heart Failure.

The following is the background to my question that I have got. Back at the start of March 2017 (36 years old then). I was admit to hospital with Pneumonia, to be told that I had severe heart failure. And the left side of my heart was only pumping <15% of blood around the body. The course of the heart failure, was put down to a virus. Along with a blood clot that they lost. And I was in hospital for 2 and a half weeks.

Fast forward to Friday 13th July. I had an appointment with my consultant yesterday for an review. He stated that I the left side of my heart was pumping 53% of the blood around my body. Of which he is pleased with. And wants me to stop taking two of my medications. The water pills (furosemide), and Warfarin. Of which I am happy about.

But my question relates to the left side of my heart pumping 53% of the blood. And my understanding, is that anything between 50% and 70% is the normal. What does this mean, in relation to my heart failure? Will it mean, that in the future. I won't have it any more, and all the heart medication. That I am on now, will stop. Or does it mean, that I will still have have heart failure. But the medication that I am taking, is helping my heart to operate normally?

[IanMK]

Hi capbiker

I’m so pleased to hear of your recovery. Well done you! I understand that an EF of 15% is very low. Although your EF is now classified as being within the normal range it is possible that it is still improving.

Regarding your outlook for the future, anything is possible. Your questions should really be addressed to your consultant or GP - as they will have a fuller picture of your specific situation. Since the original cause was a virus, then perhap you will be OK if you keep away from this virus in future. Alternatively, it could be that you are naturally susceptible to such cardiac issues. Having had a recent scare, though, at least you should now know what warning signs to look for to avoid such a severe case of heart failure.

I hope this helps.

All the best

Ian