DCM &LVEF

[Vivi2711]

Dear colleagues,

Diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy for the past one year & 8 months. Administered with carvedilol 3.125 mg twice daily, atorovastatin 10 mg, clopidegril 75mg, spironolactone plus toresemide 5mg once daily. CAG done with no blocks. On half salt and 1 to 1.5 litres of fluid restriction. Symptoms improved after 6 months and walking 40 mts a day 5 days a week with 10.40 mts per km speed.

My sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, serum creatinine, lipids, TSH and blood sugar levels are normal. BP is always around 100/80 & the pulse rate is between 70 to 80.

We had two heart screening camps done by Apollo hospital at my home town and at the place of work.

On 5th February my LVEF was 50%., with a mild LV dysfunction.

Today on 23rd February in another camp my LVEF is shown as 20%. And obviously I don't have any symptoms of shortness of breadth or fatigue as I continue my walking daily.

The cardiologist was a little perplexed to see both the echo results done on 5th February (50%) & done today (20%). He said the device may be erroneous & wanted me to come to his hospital where he can be more accurate. He refunded me the screening cost.

My doubt is can a person with 20% LVEF be active without any symptoms and as to whether his electrolytes be well balanced?

Or if otherwise, is any immediate action required please?

Little bit worried.

Please guide me

[Lezzers]

Hi Vivi2711

Im no expert but I think it is possible you can live a normal life with little to no symptoms with a low EF. You might want to think about joining the Pumping Marvellous closed facebook page as there are quite a number of people on there that have low EF readings.

However, the thing to remember is the EF is only an indication of HF, cardiologists are more interested in your symptoms & as you're asymptomatic then all is good, I can't think of why you would need immediate action. Try not to worry too much.

Also, I would be surprised at you being refunded your money if the cardiologist wasn't reasonably sure the machine was faulty.

[Vivi2711 in reply to Lezzers]

Thanks a lot. You have restored my confidence. Ever remain grateful