i am a 87 yr old women with chf and chd been in the hiospital 4 times in the last 6 weeks. i have 30% of heart

Question

what are the %'s of survival?

Answer 1

There are a number of variables having to do with your condition that makes a difference in your prognosis. Kidney function for instance is a major determinate in managing heart failure. Whether you have a heart arrhythmia is very important to know in estimating outcome too.

Recent studies show a six year mortality of 80 percent in men and 65 percent in women. That is 80% of men and 65% of women die within six years of the diagnosis of CHF being made.
Prognosis can be made based on your current level of symptoms

Class I: No symptoms at any level of exertion
Class II: Symptoms with heavy exertion
Class III: Symptoms with light exertion
Class IV: Symptoms with no exertion

In patients with functional class IV heart failure, the one year mortality is approximately 60 percent. This decreases to 25 to 30 percent for class III and 10 to 15 percent for class II CHF.

A 30% ejection fraction (EF) is reduced compared to normal - but is not alone fatal. You may benefit from consideration of either a bi-ventricular pacemaker or a implantable defibrillator or a combination unit. A cardiologist will be able to evaluate your condition for such a consideration.

I should say that I have patients who are actively employed and holding down a physicially active job with an EF of 15%. So do not assume that because your heart's efficiency is reduced that there is no hope.

If your condition is not being managed by a cardiologist or a specialist who manages CHF daily then you should consider seeking a referral for one...especially considering the hospitalizations you have had. I have witnessed periods where patients go through tough periods (frequent hospitalizations) until we hit on the right combination of therapies for that individual. Six months later that same person is amazed they are feeling so well. It can truly be miraculous.

Finally I might add that you can never underestimate the importance of attitude and the will to improve. Those who accept a defeatist attitude and feel resigned to their illness - not surprisingly do poorly. Those who make the best of things and refuse to let it get them down do much better. You didn't get to be 87 years old letting any little thing throw you a curve...don't let this do it to you either. Good luck and god bless.

Answer 2

1

Answer 3

Are you taking medicines? I hope you have a good cardiologist. There are medicines to help improve (or at least keep your heart function from getting worse) your heart function. 30% Ejection fraction is severe dysfunction, but many people walk around with less, if they are adequately medically managed. If you were in the hospital 4x over the last 6 weeks, you may need more aggressive treatment.

Answer 4

dont know but im sorry good luck

Answer 5

no alot im srry