Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)

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About this diagram

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a type of heart failure in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, despite the fact that the heart’s main pumping chamber (the left ventricle) is functioning normally. This is in contrast to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), which is characterized by a decrease in the left ventricle’s pumping ability. HFpEF is a common condition, particularly in older individuals, and it is estimated to affect up to 50% of people with heart failure. It is also more common in women than in men. The main symptoms of HFpEF are similar to those of other types of heart failure, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the ankles and legs. However, these symptoms may be milder in individuals with HFpEF than in those with HFrEF. HFpEF is typically diagnosed based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram to evaluate the heart’s function and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for abnormal heart rhythms. Treatment for HFpEF may involve a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgery to address underlying conditions that may be contributing to the heart failure. These may include hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

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