Please help me work this out?

[Foxflyer10]

I had palpitations over a year ago and ecg showed mild left hubdle branch block. Ecjocardiogram and MRI didn't show any other problems so doctor said see me in a year. Last week I had an echo audiogram and spoke to consultant a few days ago regarding results. He said there is slight impairment and he is going to put me on medication long term to slow it down. He said he would also line to out me on beta blockers but because I have asthma, he would like the asthma more controlled first. He said that normal heart is 50 % and mine is 45% but I didn't hear well what this meant. Does this mean I have heart failure? Looking online for information has scared me, with info like from diagnosis how many years people live for etc..... please can anyone shed more light and help me understand?

[RufusScamp]

"Heart failure" is a very misleading term, if that is your diagnosis. It merely means your heart is not as efficient as it could be.

I was diagnosed with it 3 years ago, with LBBB, but my EF (ejection fraction) has improved from 20% to 60% with suitable medication.

Your problem has been caught, and can probably be controlled. DO NOT rely on Dr Google for information; try the main BHF website.

[Foxflyer10 in reply to RufusScamp]

Thank you. Once I receive the copy of the consultants letter to the gp, I would have a better idea

[Ewloe]

sounds like you have reduced ejection fraction. Your heart isn’t failing just not working as efficiently. My EF is 46%. After a heart attack. On the medications I’ve got my swimming up to 60 lengths twice a week, do Pilates attend a well-being class at the gym as well as doing some gym stuff. Oh and go for some good walk’s as well. Yes I am slow walking up any hill and get tired but I try and get a balance. Hopefully you’ll get your asthma sorted and then the right treatment so you’ll be able to enjoy your life.

[Foxflyer10 in reply to Ewloe]

Thank you

[Homely2]

My asthma and my heart are a bit linked. If my asthma is under control my heart is not to bad, if my asthma is out of control, my ecg gets unhappy and my blood pressure can get very high.

So having a go to get your asthma well under control makes a lot of sense from a heart health perspective.

You also need to be careful which beta blockers you use if you have asthma.

[Octarine]

Hi, I also have LBBB and Prinzmetal angina. I’m also asthmatic so I can’t take beta blockers. My consultant prescribed calcium channel blockers instead. He said they do a similar job to beta blockers but they don’t affect the lungs. I’ve been on them 8 years and they haven’t upset my asthma.

[Foxflyer10 in reply to Octarine]

Has your heart worsened over the last 8 years being on medication?