Why is this important?

The proper treatment for heart failure depends on what area of your heart is affected.  An important test is to check how your heart is pumping, called an "evaluation of the left ventricular systolic function."  It can tell your health care provider whether the left side of your heart is pumping properly.  Other ways to check on how your heart is pumping include:

• your medical history

• a physical examination

• listening to your heart sounds

• other tests as ordered by a physician (like an electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, blood work, and echocardiogram