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What Happens If a Heart Block Is Left Untreated?

Published in Cardiac Health 2 mins read

If a heart block is left untreated, it can lead to lightheadedness, fainting spells, and in severe cases, sudden cardiac arrest.

Consequences of Untreated Heart Block

Heart block occurs when the electrical signals that control your heartbeat are delayed or blocked, preventing the heart from pumping blood effectively. The severity of the consequences depends on the degree of the heart block.

Mild Heart Block

  • Often causes no noticeable symptoms.
  • May not require treatment.

Moderate to Severe Heart Block

  • Lightheadedness and Fainting: The most common symptom is feeling lightheaded or fainting due to reduced blood flow to the brain. This is because the heart is not pumping enough blood effectively.
  • Fatigue and Shortness of Breath: You may experience fatigue and shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, as your body is not receiving enough oxygen.
  • Sudden Cardiac Arrest: In severe cases, particularly complete heart block (third-degree), the heart may stop beating altogether, leading to sudden cardiac arrest, which is life-threatening.
  • Adams-Stokes Attacks: These are episodes of sudden loss of consciousness caused by a temporary cessation of the heart's activity.

Why Treatment is Important

Treatment for significant heart block typically involves a pacemaker, which is a small device implanted in the chest to regulate the heartbeat. A pacemaker ensures that the heart beats at a consistent and adequate rate, preventing the symptoms and complications associated with heart block.

Summary

Untreated heart block can range from causing minor symptoms like lightheadedness to life-threatening conditions like sudden cardiac arrest. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, often with a pacemaker, are crucial for managing heart block and preventing serious complications.