Overview
A bundle branch block (BBB) is when something blocks or disrupts the electrical signal that causes your heart to beat. This block leads to an abnormal heart rhythm.
Your heart’s tissue sends electrical impulses that travel through pathways called bundle branches. These impulses normally travel through the bottom chambers of your heart (ventricles). Your heart’s two ventricles usually contract at the same time. But a bundle branch block delays the electrical signal, therefore, the ventricle that receives the delayed signal will contract at a later time.
Healthcare providers don’t always treat bundle branch blocks. But they may treat the underlying health problems that cause the block.
What are the types of bundle branch blocks?
There are two types of bundle branch blocks:
- Right bundle branch block (RBBB): RBBB occurs when a disruption happens along the pathway that sends electrical signals to your right ventricle.
- Left bundle branch block (LBBB): LBBB occurs when a disruption happens along the pathway that sends electrical signals to your left ventricle.
You can have a disruption in one bundle or in both your left bundle and your right bundle at the same time.
Who might have a bundle branch block?
Anyone can have a bundle branch block. The risk of both right bundle branch block and left bundle branch block increases with age and other health conditions, such as heart disease.
How common is a bundle branch block?
- Right bundle branch block: RBBB is more common than LBBB. RBBB affects about 0.8% of people at age 50 and up to 11.3% of people by age 80.
- Left bundle branch block: LBBB affects about 0.06% to 0.1% of the U.S. population. Around 33% of people with heart failure have LBBB.
How does a bundle branch block affect my body?
Bundle branches form part of your heart conduction system, which controls your heartbeat. A block affects your body based on where it’s located:
- Right bundle branch block: If you have RBBB, the blockage is in the bundle branch that carries the electrical impulse to your right ventricle. This problem causes your left ventricle to contract before your right ventricle.
- Left bundle branch block: If you have LBBB, the blockage is in the bundle branch that carries the electrical impulse to your left ventricle. This problem causes your right ventricle to contract before your left ventricle, making it harder for your heart to pump blood efficiently. A diagnosis of left bundle branch block often means that you have an underlying heart condition.
- Left and right bundle branch blocks: If you have blockages in both bundle branches, the electrical impulse from the upper to lower chambers of your heart will be completely blocked. This can result in a slower heart rate and other serious health problems.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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