First-Degree Atrioventricular Block

Although heart rate and rhythm are often normal, the first-degree block may not show any symptoms and may only be discovered on a regular electrocardiogram (ECG). 

• Dyspnea, weakness, or dizziness are symptoms of excessive electrical signal delay. 

Most people are only diagnosed when they are checked for a different medical problem. Book an appointment with your Cardiologist if you experience any of these symptoms or call the emergency number right away if you experience any chest pain or discomfort. 

Congenital heart block, which affects some people, is a birth defect. However, heart block typically appears later in life. Acquired heart block is what this is, and it can be brought on by: 

• Other cardiac issues, like a heart attack 
• Prescription medications 
• Other health issues, like Lyme disease 
• Undergoing heart surgery 

If a baby is born with a heart defect or if their mother has an autoimmune disease like lupus, they are more likely to suffer congenital heart block. 

Laboratory studies 

• Troponin levels: if AV block is suspected as a result of ischemia/infarction. 
• Electrolyte levels (hyperkalemia) and drug levels (e.g., digitalis), if raised potassium level or drug toxicity is detected. 
• In cases of systemic illness, investigations of infection (Lyme titers), myxedema (TSH levels), or connective tissue disease (ANA). 

Electrocardiography 

• 24-hour and/or extended monitoring 

Additional modalities 

• Electrophysiologic test: To pinpoint the block's position and associated tachyarrhythmias 
• Echocardiography can be used to evaluate ventricular function (especially if an implantable device is required) 
• Exercise test: To determine whether AV block gets better or worse with exercise. 

You can be referred to an electrophysiologist by your Cardiologist. Doctors that specialise in the electrical activity of the heart are called electrophysiologists. 

Heart blocks of the first degree are typically not treated. However, there are several things you can do to maintain your body and heart as healthy as possible: 

• Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes quitting smoking and using illicit drugs, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising frequently, getting enough sleep each night, lowering stress, and limiting alcohol. 
• Review your medications and any dietary supplements with your cardiologist to see if any affect the usual amounts of potassium, calcium, and magnesium in your body, which affect how your heart beats electrically. 

Find out from your cardiologist or electrophysiologist whether you need to adjust your diet or medication. Usually, this kind of heart block does not interfere with your daily activities.