The full form of CHB is Complete Heart Block.
Complete Heart Block (CHB) is a serious heart condition that occurs when the electrical signals that coordinate the heart's contractions are completely blocked between the atria (upper chambers) and the ventricles (lower chambers). This blockage prevents the normal transmission of electrical impulses, forcing the ventricles to beat independently and at a slower rate than normal.
Understanding Complete Heart Block:
- Electrical System of the Heart: The heart has its own electrical system that controls the timing and sequence of heartbeats. Electrical impulses originate in the sinoatrial (SA) node, travel through the atria, and then pass to the ventricles via the atrioventricular (AV) node.
- The Block: In Complete Heart Block, the electrical signals are unable to pass from the atria to the ventricles. This is often due to a problem with the AV node or the conduction pathways below it.
- Ventricular Escape Rhythm: When the ventricles don't receive signals from the atria, they generate their own, slower rhythm to keep the heart pumping. This is called a ventricular escape rhythm.
Causes of Complete Heart Block:
- Congenital Heart Defects: Some individuals are born with CHB.
- Heart Disease: Coronary artery disease, heart attack, or other forms of heart disease can damage the heart's electrical system.
- Medications: Certain medications can interfere with the heart's electrical activity.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus can sometimes affect the heart's conduction system.
- Surgery: Cardiac surgery can occasionally lead to damage to the AV node.
- Unknown: Sometimes, the cause of CHB is not identified.
Symptoms of Complete Heart Block:
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting (syncope)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Treatment of Complete Heart Block:
The primary treatment for Complete Heart Block is the implantation of a permanent pacemaker. A pacemaker is a small device that is surgically implanted under the skin, usually near the collarbone. It sends electrical impulses to the heart to regulate the heart rate and rhythm.
