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Second-degree heart block occurs when electrical signals between the ventricles and atria slow down or are interrupted, leading to a lack of blood flow. It comes in two types, with type 2 being more serious and potentially fatal. Causes include prescription drugs and other diseases.
Second-degree heart block occurs when electrical signals, usually used in communication between the ventricles and atria, slow down or are interrupted. When this occurs, the ventricles do not receive messages instructing them to pump blood to the rest of the body. Second degree heart block comes in two classifications, type 1 and type 2. Depending on the diagnosis given, it can be a very serious health problem and can even be fatal.
The ventricles are found in both the brain and the heart. The ventricles of the heart are responsible for pumping blood through the arteries. The atria, also known as the atrium, are where blood is held before it is sent to the ventricles. Communication and proper functioning between the ventricles and atria are crucial for proper distribution and flow of blood.
Also known as second-degree atrioventricular block or second-degree AV block, this type of heart block is characterized in two different ways. The first, known as type 1 second-degree heart block, is a progressive type of block. It begins with the signals between the atria and the ventricles slowing down with each heart beat until the heart eventually skips a beat. A diagnosis of type 1 second-degree AV block does not always lead to type 2 block. While this type is not as severe or life-threatening as type 2 heart block, it is still considered a serious condition.
Type 2 second-degree heart block occurs when some signals are completely lost between the atria and the ventricles. In type 2 second-degree heart block, some signals may still be transmitted as usual, while others are lost completely. Pacemakers, which can work to help regulate signals, are commonly used in an attempt to correct this condition.
Of the two types, type 1 second-degree heart block does not usually progress to a more serious condition. Type 2 heart block, on the other hand, is very serious and often progresses to a syndrome known as Stokes-Adams, characterized by sudden fainting. Type 2 second-degree heart block also often progresses to a more severe type of block classified as third-degree heart block.
Second-degree heart block can be caused by some prescription drugs, including antiarrhythmic drugs and beta-blockers. It can also be caused by other diseases and conditions, such as heart tumors, Lyme disease, rheumatoid arthritis and hyperthyroidism. Heart block can also be congenital and affects both men and women equally.
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