I have an appointment with my Cardiologist on Sunday a year on from my diagnosis of heart failure. At that time my EF was 30 to 35, measured by echocardiogram. Since then I eventually got an MRI, after making my way to the top of an 11 month waiting list, and had a stress test a couple of weeks ago. My nurse has told me that the MRI measured my EF at 53. The MRI failed to identify any cause for the heart failure. I have no idea what the stress test results are. But clearly the meds are having a positive effect.
My cholesterol is highish at 5.5 and last BP measurement was 'elevated' at 130/80. I have regular ectopic heart beats. Apart from tiredness, and therefore a need to pace myself, I have no other symptoms. This week I've done 2 walks with my dog of around 10km, on both taking it slow and incorporating a cafe stop half way.
To get the best out of this appointment I'm looking for advice on what questions to ask? I do want to ask about prognosis, but I'm scared of the answer I may get. I'm 56 and considering early retirement so an idea of prognosis is key as clearly there are significant financial implications I need to consider alongside health issues.
Any advice much appreciated. Thank you.
cardiologist appointments 
Cardiologist appointments
Still no follow up appointment with cardiologist 
Cardiologist Appointment H F 
Missed appointment with Cardiologist
I would obviously ask about all test results ,ask if you can attend cardiac rehab class if not already done so & find out what exercise regime would be good for you as this will help bring your ejection fraction higher but I think you've done well in a year ,just ask what else you can do to improve this diet exercise etc
Thank you. I never thought of asking for cardiac rehab, I'll definitely mention that.
Very welcome ,it's a good environment to work on your exercise you feel safer less anxious having trained staff around you & they can definitely help you with your exercise goals good luck