What is Heart Block?

Have you ever wondered what happens when the rhythm of your heart hits a roadblock? In a condition known as heart block also called atrioventricular (AV) block, the electrical signals that control the heartbeat can be disrupted or slowed down. As a result, the heart may exhibit irregular rhythms or beat too slowly. 

Heart block can vary in severity, ranging from mild cases with no noticeable symptoms to severe instances leading to fainting, chest pain, or even a heart attack. Although heart block is a serious condition, it can be effectively managed through the use of pacemakers or medications. With appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals with heart block can lead normal, active lives.

Types Of Heart Block

Heart blocks are usually classified on the basis of their severity. The three most common heart block types include: 

• First-degree heart block is the mildest form, where there is a slight delay in the electrical impulses between the atria and ventricles. Typically, it doesn’t cause symptoms, but it may lead to a slow heartbeat or occasional skipped beats.
• Second-degree heart block is more serious, involving partial blockage of electrical impulses. It can result in a slow heartbeat, skipped beats, or even fainting. There are two types of this:
  • Mobitz type I, which is characterized by a progressive delay in impulses until one is completely blocked, causing gradually spaced heartbeats.
  • Mobitz type II, where impulses are blocked without warning, leading to sudden drops in heart rate and potential fainting.
• Third-degree heart block is the most severe type, with complete blockage of impulses between the atria and ventricles. As a result, the ventricles beat independently from the atria, often resulting in a significantly slow heart rate. Third-degree heart block is a medical emergency requiring immediate pacemaker treatment.

Understanding the different types of heart block helps to appreciate the varying levels of severity and the importance of timely medical intervention.

Symptoms Of Heart Block

The heart block symptoms experienced can vary based on severity of the condition. While some individuals may not display any noticeable heart block symptoms, others may encounter:

• Bradycardia- Bradycardia refers to a slow heartbeat, where the heart rate is lower than the normal range.
• Arrhythmia– Arrhythmia is a condition where the heartbeat rhythm is irregular, causing abnormal heartbeats.
• Palpitations- Palpitations are a sensation of a fluttering or racing heartbeat, often felt as rapid or skipped beats.
• Shortness of breath– Shortness of breath refers to difficulty in breathing or feeling breathless.
• Chest pain- Chest pain can be experienced as discomfort, pressure, or tightness in the chest and may occur with a heart block.
• Dizziness- Dizziness refers to a feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or faintness, which can be a symptom of heart block.
• Fainting- Fainting, also known as syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness, often caused by a temporary disruption in the heart’s electrical signals.
• Heart failure– Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, fluid retention, and shortness of breath. Heart block can be a contributing factor to heart failure in some cases.

Causes of Heart Block

Heart block causes can be divided into two main categories:

• Acquired Heart Block:
  • Acquired heart block causes include:
    
    • Coronary artery disease: When the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked, it can restrict blood flow and damage the electrical conduction system.
    • Myocardial infarction (heart attack): A heart attack can lead to damage in the heart muscle, including the electrical pathways, causing heart block.
    • Cardiomyopathy: Certain heart muscle diseases, such as dilated cardiomyopathy or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, can disrupt the normal electrical signals in the heart.
    • Heart surgery: Certain cardiac surgeries or procedures may unintentionally affect the electrical conduction system, resulting in a heart block.
    • Infections: Inflammatory conditions like myocarditis or endocarditis can cause inflammation and damage to the heart muscle, affecting the electrical pathways.
    • Medications: Some medications, particularly certain antiarrhythmic drugs or beta-blockers, can interfere with the normal conduction of electrical impulses in the heart, contributing to heart block.
    • Autoimmune disorders: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can trigger an autoimmune reaction that affects the heart’s electrical system.   
• Congenital Heart Block:
  • Congenital heart block is a rare condition that is present from birth. It occurs when there is an abnormality in the heart’s electrical conduction system. It is often associated with autoimmune diseases in the mother. Maternal antibodies can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetal heart.

In a Nutshell

Heart block is a condition that can disrupt the normal electrical signals controlling the heartbeat, resulting in an irregular or slow heartbeat. However, the good news is that with proper medication and treatment, heart block can be effectively managed, allowing individuals to live long and happy lives. It’s important to understand that heart block can have various causes, including acquired factors like coronary artery disease, heart attacks, medications, and infections, as well as congenital factors associated with autoimmune diseases. If you are experiencing symptoms of heart block or have concerns about your heart health, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.

Remember, early detection and timely intervention are key to managing heart block effectively. To find a skilled healthcare professional specializing in cardiovascular health, you can visit our Find a Physician page and get in touch with an experienced physician who can provide the expertise and guidance you need. 

You have the power to take charge of your heart health and lead a fulfilling life. By taking proactive steps and consulting with a qualified healthcare provider, you can ensure that you receive appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for your heart block or related concerns. 

Don’t hesitate to connect with a knowledgeable physician and start your journey toward a healthier heart!