Heart Blockage Treatment in Gurgaon, India

What Is Heart Block?

A heart block is a condition that affects your heart's electrical conduction system. It occurs when the electrical signals that control your heartbeat are delayed or completely blocked as they travel from the upper chambers (atria) to the lower chambers (ventricles) of your heart.

Your heart has a natural pacemaker called the sinoatrial node that creates electrical impulses to maintain a regular heartbeat. These signals normally travel smoothly through a specific pathway in your heart, first through the atria, then through an area called the AV node, and finally to the ventricles. When something interferes with this electrical pathway, you develop a heart block.

The severity can range from mild delays in signal transmission to complete blockage where signals can't get through at all. This disruption can cause your heart to beat too slowly, or irregularly, or in severe cases, the upper and lower chambers may beat completely independently of each other. At Artemis Hospital, our cardiology team can determine the type and severity of your heart block and provide appropriate treatment, from careful monitoring in mild cases to pacemaker implantation for more serious conditions.

Types of Heart Block

Heart block is classified into three types based on severity:

1. First-Degree Heart Block

• What Happens? Electrical signals slow down slightly but still reach the ventricles.

• Symptoms? Usually none. Often found during routine check-ups.

• Treatment? Rarely needed, but regular monitoring is advised.

2. Second-Degree Heart Block

This type has two subtypes:

• Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach’s AV Block)

-Signals get progressively slower until a beat is skipped.

-Mild dizziness or fatigue. Common in athletes.

-May not require immediate intervention unless symptoms worsen.

• Mobitz Type II

-Sudden signal blocks without warning.

-Frequent dizziness, fainting, or chest pain.

-Often requires a pacemaker to regulate the heartbeat.

3. Third-Degree Heart Block (Complete Heart Block)

• Signals between the atria and ventricles are completely blocked. The ventricles create a slow rhythm, which can’t meet the body’s needs.

• Severe fatigue, shortness of breath, fainting, or sudden cardiac arrest.

• A pacemaker is almost always necessary.

At Artemis Hospital, our cardiologists tailor treatment to your specific type of heart block, ensuring the best outcomes.

Who Is at Risk of Heart Block?

While heart block can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk:

1. Age: People over 50 are more prone to natural wear and tear of the heart.

2. Heart Disease: History of heart attack, heart failure, or coronary artery disease.

3. Congenital Defects: Born with heart rhythm issues.

4. Infections: Lyme disease, rheumatic fever, or myocarditis.

5. Medications: Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin.

6. Autoimmune Disorders: Lupus or sarcoidosis.

7. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, or sedentary habits.

If you have these risk factors, regular heart check-ups at Artemis can catch issues early.

What Causes Heart Block?

Heart block doesn’t happen without a reason. Common causes include:

1. Aging: Degeneration of the heart’s electrical pathways.

2. Heart Damage: From a heart attack or surgery.

3. Inflammation: Due to infections or autoimmune diseases.

4. Congenital Conditions: Some babies are born with heart block.

5. Electrolyte Imbalances: Low potassium or magnesium levels.

6. Drug Side Effects: Certain blood pressure or arrhythmia medications.

7. Underlying Arrhythmias: Conditions like atrial fibrillation.

Our team at Artemis Hospital investigates the root cause to design a targeted treatment plan.

Symptoms of Heart Block

Symptoms depend on the severity of the blockage.

1. Slow or Irregular Heartbeat

2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

3. Fainting (Syncope)

4. Chest Pain

5. Shortness of Breath

6. Fatigue

7. Confusion or Memory Issues

Severe cases can lead to heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest. If you notice these symptoms, visit Artemis Hospital immediately for evaluation.

How Is Heart Block Diagnosed?

At Artemis, we use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint heart blocks:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records your heart’s electrical activity to detect irregularities.

2. Holter Monitor: A portable ECG device is worn for 24–48 hours to catch intermittent issues.

3. Event Monitor: Similar to a Holter but used for weeks to monitor rare episodes.

4. Echocardiogram: Ultrasound to check heart structure and function.

5. Blood Tests: Rule out infections, electrolyte imbalances, or thyroid issues.

6. Electrophysiology Study (EPS): A minimally invasive test to map electrical pathways in the heart.

7. Implantable Loop Recorder: A small device under the skin records heart rhythms for up to 3 years.

Our cardiologists explain each test in simple terms, so you’re never left in the dark.

Complications of Untreated Heart Block

Ignoring heart block can lead to serious problems.

1. Heart Failure: The heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

2. Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Complete blockage can cause the heart to stop abruptly.

3. Organ Damage: Poor blood flow harms the brain, kidneys, or liver.

4. Falls or Injuries: Due to fainting spells.

5. Chronic Fatigue: Affects quality of life.

Early treatment at Artemis Hospital can prevent these complications.

Heart Block Treatment at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

Our treatment plans are customized to the type and severity of your heart block:

1. First-Degree Heart Block

• Monitoring: Regular check-ups and ECGs.

• Lifestyle Changes: Quit smoking, manage stress, and eat a heart-healthy diet.

2. Second-Degree Heart Block

• Mobitz Type I: Often requires no treatment unless symptoms appear.

• Mobitz Type II: A pacemaker is usually recommended to regulate the heartbeat.

3. Third-Degree Heart Block

• Pacemaker Implantation: A small device is placed under the skin to send electrical signals to the heart.

• Emergency Care: Temporary pacemakers or IV medications stabilize critical patients.

4. Additional Therapies

• Medication Adjustments: Stopping or replacing drugs that worsen the block.

• Treating Underlying Causes: Managing infections, inflammation, or electrolyte imbalances.

• Cardiac Rehabilitation: Exercise and dietary programs to strengthen the heart post-treatment.

Artemis Hospital is a leader in pacemaker implantation, offering minimally invasive procedures with quick recovery times.

Preventing Heart Block: Tips from Artemis Experts

While you can’t always prevent heart block, these steps reduce your risk:

1. Control Blood Pressure and Diabetes

2. Eat a Balanced Diet

3. Exercise Regularly

4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

5. Manage Stress

6. Regular Screenings

Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Heart Block Treatment?

1. Expert Cardiologists: Our team has decades of experience in treating arrhythmias and heart block.

2. Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art ECGs, pacemakers, and electrophysiology labs.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Faster recovery and fewer complications.

4. 24/7 Emergency Care: Immediate support for critical cases like sudden cardiac arrest.

5. Holistic Care: Nutritional guidance, mental health support, and rehabilitation services.

6. Transparent Communication: We explain your condition and options in simple language.

Act Now—Your Heart Deserves the Best Care!

Heart block might sound intimidating, but with Artemis Hospital’s expertise, you’re in safe hands. Whether it’s a minor rhythm hiccup or a need for a pacemaker, our compassionate team is here to help you reclaim your life.

Experiencing dizziness, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat? Don’t wait.
Schedule a consultation with Artemis Hospital today—because every heartbeat matters!

Reviewed By Dr. Sushant Srivastava
Chairperson - Heart & Lungs Transplant
Artemis Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions:

What happens if I have a heart block? 

Heart block slows or interrupts your heart's electrical signals, which can affect your heart rate and rhythm. Symptoms range from mild fatigue to dizziness.

Is heart block serious or dangerous? 

First-degree blocks are usually mild, but second and third-degree blocks can be serious and may require immediate treatment.

Who is at risk of having a heart block? 

Older adults, people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, and those who've had heart surgery are at higher risk.

Can heart block be prevented? 

While some cases can't be prevented, maintaining heart health through diet, exercise, and managing medical conditions reduces risk.

How does heart block affect my life? 

The impact varies by severity. Mild cases may need minimal lifestyle changes, while severe cases might require a pacemaker.

Can a blockage in the heart be cured? 

While not always curable, heart block can be effectively managed with proper treatment and medical care.

What is the reason for heart blockage? 

Common causes include aging, heart disease, heart attacks, certain medications, or being born with heart problems.

How much blockage is normal in the heart? 

Any heart block should be evaluated by a doctor, as even mild cases need monitoring.

Can ECG detect heart blockage? 

Yes, ECG tests can identify heart block and help determine its type and severity.

What is the first stage of heart blockage? 

First-degree heart block, where electrical signals move more slowly but still reach their destination.

Who treats heart blockage? 

Cardiologists and heart rhythm specialists (electrophysiologists) are the primary doctors for heart block treatment.

Why choose Artemis Hospital for heart blockage? 

We offer experienced cardiac specialists, advanced technology, and comprehensive care for all types of heart block.