What is heart block?
Heart block is a condition where the electrical signals in the heart are delayed or blocked, which impacts the heart's ability to beat normally. The condition occurs when the conduction system of the heart (the one responsible for transmitting electrical impulses) is interrupted at various points. Heart block can vary in severity, from mild cases that cause no symptoms to more severe forms that can lead to a dangerously slow heart rate and require medical treatment.Causes of heart block
Heart block can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attacks
- Medications (like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers)
- Conditions affecting the heart's electrical conduction system, such as congenital defects or inflammation of the heart.
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Heart surgery
- Degenerative diseases that affect the heart's electrical pathways
Risk factors for heart block
Risk factors for heart block include:
- Getting older
- Heart disease (particularly coronary artery disease and previous heart attacks)
- High blood pressure
- Certain medications that affect heart rhythm
- Underlying conditions like diabetes or electrolyte imbalances
- Family history of heart block or other conduction disorders
Symptoms of heart block
Symptoms of heart block can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and severity of the block.
Mild cases may cause no symptoms at all, while more severe cases can result in fatigue, dizziness, fainting (syncope), shortness of breath, chest pain or a slow heart rate (bradycardia).
In extreme cases, heart block can lead to heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest.
Diagnosing heart block
Heart block is diagnosed using an electrocardiogram (ECG), which measures the electrical activity of the heart and can show delays or interruptions in the electrical signals.
How severe the heart block is is classified into three types:
- First-degree
- Second-degree
- Third-degree (complete) heart block
Additional tests, such as Holter monitoring or an electrophysiology study, may be used to further assess the condition.
Treatment of heart block
Treatment for heart block depends on the type and severity of the block.
First-degree heart block may not require treatment, while second-degree and third-degree heart block often need medical intervention.
Pacemakers are commonly used to treat more severe cases, as they help regulate the heart's rhythm and prevent dangerously slow heart rates.
In some cases, medications or lifestyle changes may be recommended to address underlying causes, such as heart disease or electrolyte imbalances.