Bundle branch block is a condition in which there's a defect in the heart’s electrical conduction system. The defect may occur on the passageway that sends electrical impulses to the left or to the right side of the bottom chambers (ventricles) of the heart. Bundle branch block causes insufficient blood flow throughout the circulatory system due to ineffective pumping of the heart. Although there is no specific treatment for bundle branch block, conditions such as heart disease that may be the cause for the block itself will need to be treated.

 

Symptoms 

In most individuals, bundle branch block does not cause any symptoms. However, in some cases, signs and symptoms can be seen. These include: 

  • Fainting spells
  • Feeling of faint

 

Causes 

Changes in the electrical impulses of the heart’s electrical conduction system can cause blockage or damage to one of both of the branch bundles. The underlying cause for bundle branch blocks may differ depending on whether the left or right bundle branch is affected.

  • Left bundle branch block: Heart disease, weakened heart muscle, bacterial infection of the heart muscle and high blood pressure
  • Right bundle branch block: Heart abnormality, heart attack, bacterial infection of the heart muscle, high blood pressure, blood clot in the lungs

 

Risk Factors

Factors associated with an increased risk of bundle branch block include:

  • Increase in age (more common in older adults)
  • Health issues (high blood pressure or heart disease)

 

Complications 

Complications of bulimia may include:

  • Slow heart rate
  • Fainting spells
  • Delay in proper diagnosis of heart conditions due to influence on electrical activity of the heart
  • Sudden cardiac death

 

Treatment

In most cases, individuals with bundle branch block don’t have any symptoms and may not require treatment. However, if condition worsens, a doctor might recommend:

  • Coronary angioplasty: A procedure used to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries
  • Cardiac resynchronization: A procedure used the keep both sides of the heart in proper rhythm by installing a device similar to a pacemaker with a third wire that’s connected to the left side of the heart.
  • Pacemaker: a medical device used to provide electrical impulses when needed to return the heart to a normal rhythm.
  • Medications to reduce high blood pressure and reduce the effects of heart failure