Left bundle branch block

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Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Left bundle branch block
File:Left bundle branch block ECG characteristics.svg
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Often asymptomatic, may include syncope, dizziness, or palpitations
Complications	Heart failure, arrhythmias
Onset	Can occur at any age, more common in older adults
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Coronary artery disease, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis
Risks	Age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking
Diagnosis	Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Differential diagnosis	Right bundle branch block, myocardial infarction, ventricular hypertrophy
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Treat underlying cause, pacemaker if symptomatic
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies depending on underlying condition
Frequency	Common in older adults
Deaths	N/A

File:LBBB2009.JPG

Left bundle branch block

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) is a condition in which there's a delay or obstruction along the pathway that electrical impulses travel to make your heart beat. The delay or blockage occurs on the pathway that sends signals to the left side of your heart. Left bundle branch block is often associated with other heart conditions, such as heart disease or hypertension.

Causes

Left bundle branch block can be caused by several conditions, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, and heart valve disease. It can also occur as a result of aging or damage to the heart from a heart attack.

Symptoms

In many cases, left bundle branch block doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or fainting. If the condition is caused by an underlying heart problem, symptoms of that condition may also be present.

Diagnosis

Left bundle branch block is usually diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can show the electrical activity of the heart and reveal any abnormalities. Other tests, such as an echocardiogram or cardiac stress test, may also be used to determine the cause of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment for left bundle branch block usually involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery. If the condition is causing significant symptoms or is associated with a high risk of complications, a pacemaker may be implanted to help regulate the heart's electrical activity.

See also

• Bundle branch block
• Right bundle branch block
• Heart disease
• Electrocardiogram