As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with information on the causes of a low ejection fraction. Ejection fraction (EF) is a measure of how well the heart is pumping blood with each beat, expressed as a percentage. A normal ejection fraction is generally considered to be 50% or higher, while a low ejection fraction indicates that the heart is not pumping as effectively as it should be.
Causes of a low ejection fraction can be broadly categorized into several groups:
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This is the most common cause. When the heart muscle doesn't get enough blood flow due to blocked or narrowed arteries, it can lead to a heart attack or ischemia, which can damage the heart muscle and reduce EF.
2. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): A heart attack can cause a significant portion of the heart muscle to die, which can severely impact the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.
3. Heart Failure: Long-term pressure or workload on the heart can lead to heart failure, where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, often resulting in a reduced ejection fraction.
4. Cardiomyopathy: This is a disease of the heart muscle itself, which can be either dilated (enlarged) or hypertrophic (thickened). Both types can lead to a decrease in ejection fraction.
5. Valvular Heart Disease: Problems with the heart's valves, such as aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation, can affect the heart's ability to pump effectively.
6. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like myocarditis, which is an inflammation of the heart muscle, can also lead to a low ejection fraction.
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Inherited Conditions: Certain genetic conditions can predispose individuals to a low ejection fraction.
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Toxins and Medications: Exposure to certain toxins or the use of certain medications can also damage the heart muscle and lead to a reduced ejection fraction.
It's important to note that a low ejection fraction is a serious medical condition that requires evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional.
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