Bundle Branch Block - Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.

Bundle Branch Block

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a bundle branch block usually depends on where the block is located. People with right bundle branch block and are otherwise healthy and may not require a thorough testing. However, a complete medical examination is required if one has a left bundle branch block.

To confirm the diagnosis, these tests may be required:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): An EKG might reveal which side of the heart is affected by the bundle branch block. During an EKG, electrodes are attached to the skin of the chest area. One must remain motionless as a computer tracks the electrical impulses that go through the heart. The electrical activity of the heart is measured. It can demonstrate how well the heart is pumping.
  • Echocardiogram: This test can help identify the cause of the bundle branch block. It can also screen for cardiovascular disease and other underlying diseases. During an echo, a hand-held wand is used to examine the heart. It uses sound waves to provide detailed pictures of the heart and its valves. It can demonstrate the structure and thickness of the cardiac muscle.

Treatment

The treatment for bundle branch block depends on the exact symptoms and concurrent heart diseases. If there are no symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. Other concerns along with bundle branch block, such as high blood pressure or heart failure symptoms, may necessitate treatment.

  • Medications: The treatment for a heart condition that causes bundle branch block may involve the use of medications to lower high blood pressure and alleviate symptoms related to heart failure.
  • Surgeries and other procedures: If you have bundle branch block and a history of fainting, your healthcare provider may recommend a pacemaker, which is a small device implanted under the skin of the upper chest. It is connected to the right side of the heart using two wires and releases electrical impulses as needed to maintain a regular heartbeat. However, if you also have low heart-pumping function along with bundle branch block, you may require cardiac resynchronization therapy (biventricular pacing). This treatment is similar to a pacemaker but involves an additional wire connected to the left side of the heart, enabling the device to synchronize both sides and promote more organized and efficient contraction of the heart chambers.