What are the causes of a right bundle branch block?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Yesterday, my wife had her annual checkup, and her ECG report came back abnormal. The report states: Normal sinus rhythm, incomplete right bundle branch block, and inferior infarct (age undetermined). She is 55 years old, slightly overweight, and otherwise healthy. We are very worried.
Please advise.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
II understand how worried you are about your wife's health. Please do not worry; she will recover soon.
The ECG (electrocardiogram) indicates evidence suggesting that your wife may have an injury to the right side of her heart. This could cause a disruption in the electrical impulses traveling through that area, which is reflected as a right bundle branch block. I strongly advise consulting a cardiologist. She will need further investigations, such as an Echo (echocardiogram), to assess how well her heart is functioning and to determine the extent of any damage.
I wish her a speedy recovery.
Best regards.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
Is this urgent? Should we go to the ER today, or is it okay to wait for a cardiologist appointment in 10 days? Where can I learn more about this specific heart issue, and what questions should I ask the cardiologist?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
oYou should see a cardiologist as soon as possible, preferably tomorrow if you can. While these changes in the ECG can sometimes occur in healthy people due to errors in placing the ECG leads, it is also possible that she may have experienced a silent heart attack. This type of heart attack often occurs without obvious symptoms. The cardiologist may recommend repeating the ECG and performing an echocardiogram (Echo), which is the most accurate test for detecting prior heart attacks.
The questions you ask will depend on the results of the Echo. If the Echo confirms evidence of a heart attack, you should ask how much damage has been done to the heart muscle. Also, ask about any necessary lifestyle changes, medications she may need, and the types of activities she can safely engage in.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.