Right bundle branch block can cause dangerous complications, but symptoms may not be obvious. Causes include congenital heart disease, heart failure, heart attacks, and stroke. Treatment may include medication or a pacemaker, but asymptomatic patients often do not require treatment.
Right bundle branch block symptoms aren’t always obvious, and some individuals may not be aware that they have the condition. A small percentage of individuals notice warning signs such as fainting, a persistently slow heart rate, or actual fainting. It is not always clear that this condition requires treatment even if the person is symptom free. On the other hand, it is important that this condition is diagnosed because in some cases it can cause dangerous complications, such as heart failure, sudden arrhythmias, sudden death or very slow heart rate.
Right bundle branch block is a disruption in the electrical signals on the right side of the heart, which can interfere with the heart’s regular beat. There are a number of causes for this condition. Some people are born with a congenital heart disease that inhibits this electrical pathway. Alternatively, heart failure, heart attacks, some heart surgery, or a stroke can cause this poor electrical connection. Some individuals with high blood pressure or a recent pulmonary embolism are also prone to developing this disease.
As mentioned, many patients have no right bundle branch block symptoms. This is often especially true if the disease occurs congenitally. If symptoms occur sporadically, those who experience them are more likely to dismiss them. For example, feelings of faintness that occur from time to time could be attributed to low blood sugar or simply standing up too quickly. Most people also don’t check their heart rate regularly and are unlikely to notice if it is beating slowly.
When you notice symptoms of this faulty electrical pathway, it may be because they have become more pronounced. Individuals may have fainting spells or frequent episodes of feeling lightheaded. Doctors advise patients to seek treatment if they have passed out or are experiencing bouts of lightheadedness, lightheadedness, or feeling like they are going to pass out.
Another way symptoms of right bundle branch block may be noticed is with routine physical exams or follow-up care given after other heart problems have been identified. A very slow heart rhythm may be the only evidence of this condition and could warrant a referral to a cardiologist or electrophysiologist. These specialists can then perform more tests to evaluate the heart’s electrical system and determine the cause of the problem.
Although many people never become symptomatic of this disease, some patients progress to a greater level of right bundle branch block symptoms and are at risk for serious complications. These include heart attack or complete failure of heart function, resulting in death. To prevent this outcome, doctors may recommend medications or the implantation of a pacemaker. Conversely, asymptomatic patients often do not require treatment.
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