Heart block

Definition

Heart block is a condition where the electrical signals that control heartbeats are partially or completely blocked from reaching certain areas of the heart. This can cause irregular heart rhythms or slower heart rates.

Related terms

Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia is an irregularity in the heart's rhythm, which can result from conditions like heart block.

Pacemaker: A pacemaker is a medical device implanted to regulate the heartbeat, often used in cases where heart block prevents the heart from beating properly on its own.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG is a test that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart, commonly used to diagnose conditions such as heart block.