Overview

Heart block is a condition when the electrical signals that regulate the heartbeat are partially or entirely blocked as they travel through the heart's conduction system. This can cause a disruption in the normal heart rhythm, resulting in a slower or irregular heartbeat. Heart Block leads to the inability of the heart to pump blood to the whole body for the smooth functioning of the internal system. The condition can proceed to severe stages if not promptly treated with proper medication and required treatment. Symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, fainting, and shortness of breath can help identify the initial stages of the disorder.

A heart block is typically characterised into three sub types: first degree, second degree and third degree. A first degree heart block is the preliminary stage wherein the electric impulses move slowly and the heart does not skip a beat. The second degree heart block is marked by even slower impulses and an occasional skipping of the heart beat. In a third degree heart block, the electrical impulses are completely blocked and the heartbeat becomes very irregular.

Living with a heart disorder can be a task. The affected individual has to follow a specific diet and lifestyle along with medications to lower the symptoms of the disease. In addition, a disciplined lifestyle helps to improve the condition each day and avoid any recurrence.

Causes of Heart Block

Mentioned below are the causes of heart block that help the affected individual identify the root cause of the disease:

- - Structural Heart Problems- Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects can damage the heart's conduction system and cause heart block.
  - Ageing- As individuals age, the electrical conduction system of the heart may naturally degenerate, leading to heart block.
  - Medications- Certain medications, such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and some antiarrhythmic drugs, can interfere with the heart's electrical conduction system and cause heart block.
  - Autoimmune Disorders- Autoimmune conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or sarcoidosis, can affect the heart's conduction system and cause heart block.
  - Inflammatory Conditions- Inflammatory diseases such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or rheumatic fever can lead to heart block.
  - Infections- Infections such as Lyme disease, Chagas disease, and viral infections (e.g., influenza, mumps) can cause heart inflammation and subsequent heart block.
  - Certain Procedures or Surgeries- Cardiac surgeries, particularly those involving the conduction system, can sometimes result in temporary or permanent heart block.
  - Electrolyte Imbalances- Abnormal levels of electrolytes in the blood, such as calcium or magnesium, can disrupt the heart's electrical signals and lead to heart block.
  - Hyperkalemia is a medical situation in which the blood has more potassium than the required amount. It can lead to multiple cardiac issues such as damage to the heart, heart attack, and palpitations. In addition, the situation can worsen and can also cause a heart block.

Symptoms of Heart Block

Mentioned below are the Heart Block symptoms that allow the individual to understand the disease and identify the ailment in its initial stages:

- - Chest Pain- It is one of the symptoms of heart block. Many other medical issues accompany the condition, such as shoulder and arm pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. The affected individual may also feel pressure in the chest, leading to the inability of the individual to perform different routine activities. In case of severe symptoms, the condition may also prove to be fatal.
  - Shortness of Breath- The condition is also one of the symptoms. If an individual feels pressure in the chest and shortness of breath without heavy physical activity, the symptoms can be indicated as a cardiac issue. In case of such symptoms, it is advised to get the issue checked by professional medical help and avoid procrastination to avoid severe health situations.
  - Fainting- Fainting is one of the symptoms of this cardiac disorder. The situation happens due to an improper supply of blood and oxygen to the brain. As a result, it ceases internal body functions that severely hamper an affected individual's health. A medical professional must immediately check if an individual faints frequently without visible health symptoms.

Treatment Options for Heart Block

Mentioned below are some of the Heart Block treatment options that help to lower the symptoms of the disease:

- - Pacemaker- A pacemaker is a device fitted to an individual suffering from severe cardiac issues. The device helps maintain the patient's heartbeat and avoid other cardiac-related health issues. The device is recommended to patients suffering from 2nd and 3rd-degree stages of Heart Block. Implanting the electrical device in the patient's body is done through an operation.
  - Healthy Lifestyle- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and a healthy exercise routine is one of the biggest treatment options to lower the symptoms of cardiac disease. A healthy diet, physical exercise, avoiding smoking, consumption of healthy nuts and cereals, and staying hydrated are some of the activities that the routine of the affected patients should consist of. Other people should also follow the mentioned routine to avoid such circumstances.
  - Routine Checkup- A routine checkup with one's doctor should also be on the checklist of a cardiac patient. It helps to get the current vital stats of the body and stay updated about health. One can also get advice from the doctor regarding changes in the medicines and supplements according to the patient's health improvement.
  - Cardiac Procedures- In certain cases, procedures such as catheter ablation or surgery may be performed to correct underlying structural issues or repair the heart's conduction system.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert cardiology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Heart Block is a cardiac condition in which the organ cannot receive signals to pump blood to the whole body. The condition can happen due to multiple underlying cardiac issues. However, the cardiovascular issue can be healed with the help of timely medications and positive lifestyle changes.

Reference Links

- - https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/heart-blockage-symptoms-tests/
  - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17056-heart-block
  - https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/heart-block