Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)

Definition

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a condition where the heart's left ventricle retains its ability to contract but has impaired relaxation, leading to insufficient blood filling. Despite normal ejection fraction, patients experience symptoms of heart failure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HFpEF is characterized by a preserved ejection fraction of 50% or higher.
2. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.
3. Management typically focuses on controlling contributing factors such as hypertension and diabetes.
4. Diuretics are often used to manage fluid overload in HFpEF patients.
5. Unlike heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), there are no specific drugs proven to improve survival in HFpEF.

Review Questions

• What is the key difference between HFpEF and HFrEF?
• Which class of drugs is commonly used to manage fluid overload in HFpEF?
• What ejection fraction percentage defines HFpEF?

Related terms

Ejection Fraction: The percentage of blood pumped out of the ventricles with each contraction.

Diuretics: A class of drugs that help reduce excess fluid in the body by increasing urine production.

Hypertension: A condition characterized by consistently high blood pressure, which can contribute to heart failure.