Complete Heart Block (Third-Degree AV Block)

Overview

Complete Heart Block, also known as third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, is a serious heart rhythm disorder where electrical signals from the upper chambers (atria) do not reach the lower chambers (ventricles). As a result, the heart beats slowly and inefficiently, which can reduce blood flow to the body.

This condition can be life-threatening and often requires urgent medical evaluation and treatment.

At Moolchand Hospital, a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi, patients receive advanced cardiac rhythm management, including pacemaker therapy and emergency care.

What is Complete Heart Block?

In a normal heart, electrical signals travel from the atria to the ventricles through the AV node. In complete heart block, this communication is fully interrupted.

This leads to:

• Independent beating of atria and ventricles
  
  

• Slow and unreliable heart rhythm
  
  

• Reduced cardiac output
  
  

Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on severity.

Common Symptoms

• Fatigue
  
  

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
  

• Shortness of breath
  
  

• Chest discomfort
  
  

Severe Symptoms

• Fainting (syncope)
  
  

• Sudden weakness
  
  

• Confusion
  
  

• Cardiac arrest
  
  

Immediate evaluation is necessary if symptoms occur.

Causes

Complete heart block may be caused by:

• Degeneration of the heart’s conduction system
  
  

• Coronary artery disease
  
  

• Myocardial Infarction (heart attack)
  
  

• Infections affecting the heart
  
  

• Congenital heart defects
  
  

• Certain medications
  
  

Risk Factors

Risk factors include:

• Older age
  
  

• Heart disease
  
  

• Previous heart surgery
  
  

• Electrolyte imbalance
  
  

• Use of medications affecting heart rhythm
  
  

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Repeated fainting episodes
  
  

• Severe dizziness
  
  

• Extremely slow heartbeat
  
  

• Sudden weakness
  
  

Early diagnosis can prevent complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  
  

• Holter monitoring
  
  

• Echocardiography
  
  

• Electrophysiology studies (in selected cases)
  
  

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced cardiac diagnostics help confirm the condition accurately.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on restoring a stable heart rhythm.

Emergency Management

• Temporary pacing if required
  
  

• Stabilization of heart rate
  
  

Permanent Pacemaker

• Implantation of a pacemaker is the most effective treatment
  
  

• Helps maintain a regular heart rhythm
  
  

Medication Review

• Adjusting or stopping medications that may worsen the condition
  
  

Specialists at Moolchand Hospital Lajpat Nagar provide expert pacemaker implantation and long-term follow-up care.

Complications

If untreated, complete heart block may lead to:

• Heart Failure
  
  

• Sudden cardiac arrest
  
  

• Severe bradycardia
  
  

• Reduced organ perfusion
  
  

Timely treatment significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Regular cardiac check-ups
  
  

• Managing underlying heart conditions
  
  

• Monitoring medications
  
  

• Early detection of conduction abnormalities
  
  

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital

Patients trust Moolchand Hospital Delhi for cardiac rhythm disorders because of:

• Experienced cardiologists and electrophysiology experts
  
  

• Advanced pacemaker implantation facilities
  
  

• Comprehensive arrhythmia management
  
  

• 24/7 emergency cardiac care
  
  

• Trusted reputation as a private hospital in Delhi
  
  

For those searching for a heart specialist hospital in Delhi or arrhythmia treatment in Delhi, Moolchand offers expert and compassionate care.