As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain that a bundle branch block is a type of heart conduction disorder. It occurs when there is a delay or blockage in the electrical impulses that coordinate heartbeats. This can happen in either the left or right bundle branch, which are parts of the heart's electrical conduction system.
There are several causes for a bundle branch block:
1. Aging: The most common cause is simply the aging process, which can lead to degeneration of the heart's conduction system.
2. Coronary artery disease: This can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle, affecting the electrical system.
3. Heart attack: Damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack can disrupt the electrical signals.
4. Congenital heart disease: Some people are born with defects in their heart's electrical system.
5. Inflammatory heart disease: Conditions like myocarditis can cause inflammation that affects the heart's electrical conduction.
6. Cardiomyopathy: This is a disease of the heart muscle that can interfere with the electrical signals.
7.
Valvular heart disease: Problems with the heart's valves can sometimes lead to a bundle branch block.
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Electrolyte imbalances: Abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the blood can affect heart rhythm.
It's important to note that a bundle branch block is often asymptomatic, but if symptoms are present, they may include fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
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