The first stage of heart blockage is first-degree heart block.
Understanding First-Degree Heart Block
First-degree heart block represents the mildest form of heart blockage. It occurs when the electrical signals traveling from the atria (upper chambers of the heart) to the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart) slow down.
Reference: First-degree heart block is the least severe. The electrical signals slow down as they move from your atria to your ventricles.
Characteristics of First-Degree Heart Block
Here's what you should know about this initial stage:
- Severity: Least severe type of heart block.
- Electrical Signals: Slowed conduction of electrical signals.
- Treatment: Often requires no treatment at all. Reference: First-degree heart block might not require treatment of any kind.
- Example of Progression: It's different from Mobitz type I, where the electrical signals progressively slow down between each heartbeat. Reference: Mobitz type I: The electrical signals get slower and slower between beats.
Table Summarizing First-Degree Heart Block
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Severity | Least severe |
| Electrical Signal | Slowed conduction from atria to ventricles |
| Treatment | Often not required |
| Example of Progression | Not progressively slowing down between beats like Mobitz type I heart block |
