Heart Failure Preserved
Ejection Fraction Heart failure preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a condition in which the heart does not pump blood as efficiently as normal, but still maintains contractile force of the heart muscle to push a normal amount of blood out of the ventricles with each heartbeat. It is estimated to affect between 2-6 million people in the US, and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, hospitalizations, and decreased quality of life. HFpEF is associated with age, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and sleep apnea, and is the most common form of heart failure amongst women. Treatment typically includes lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, dietary modification, smoking cessation, and managing co-existing medical conditions. Medications such as diuretics to help reduce fluid overload, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers may also be used.
← International Journal of Heart Research