What is bundle branch block?
Your heart beat is controlled by electrical impulses. When there is a delay or obstruction of the pathway that these impulses travel on, bundle branch block occurs.  The electrical impulses can be slowed or blocked by injury or damage to the heart muscle or blockage of a blood vessel in your heart. Bundle branch block can complicate blood flow to the circulatory system. It can occur in people who appear healthy, but it is often a sign of another more severe heart problem.

Click here to learn more about the heart's Electrical System.

 What causes bundle branch block?
Bundle branch block can be caused by a variety of things including, but not limited to, heart attack, cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, high blood pressure, development of scar tissue proceeding heart surgery, and congenital heart abnormalities.

What are the symptoms of bundle branch block?
Usually bundle branch block does not cause any symptoms, but when symptoms are present they are often minimal. When people do have symptoms, they often include:

• fainting
• dizziness
• slowed heart rate.

Treatment Options
There is no specific treatment for bundle branch block as it is often caused by an underlying condition.  Your physician can determine whether or not you have an underlying condition and recommend treatment.