Understanding Heart Block

What is Heart Block?

Heart block is a condition where the electrical signals that control your heartbeat are delayed or blocked as they travel through your heart. This can affect how efficiently your heart pumps blood throughout your body.

Types of Heart Block

First-Degree Heart Block

• Mildest form
• Electrical signals are slowed but still reach all parts of the heart
• Often requires no treatment
• May not cause noticeable symptoms

Second-Degree Heart Block

• Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach):

  • Progressive slowing of signals until a beat is missed
  • Generally less serious

• Mobitz Type II:

  • Some electrical signals fail to reach the ventricles
  • More serious condition
  • May require a pacemaker

Third-Degree Heart Block

• Most serious form
• Complete blockage of electrical signals
• Requires immediate medical attention
• Usually needs permanent pacemaker

Common Symptoms

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting (syncope)
• Chest pain
• Slow or irregular heartbeat

Causes

• Age-related degeneration
• Heart attack damage
• Heart surgery complications
• Certain medications
• Underlying heart conditions
• Congenital heart defects

Diagnosis

• ECG/EKG: Primary diagnostic tool
• Holter monitor
• Event recorder
• Electrophysiology study

Treatment Options

1. Medication adjustment
2. Temporary pacemaker
3. Permanent pacemaker implantation
4. Regular monitoring

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Unexplained fainting
• Severe dizziness
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Very slow heartbeat

Prevention

• Regular cardiac check-ups
• Management of underlying conditions
• Medication compliance
• Healthy lifestyle choices

Living with Heart Block

• Follow your treatment plan
• Attend regular follow-up appointments
• Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle
• Wear medical identification
• Keep emergency contact information handy