How can one effectively manage bifascicular block?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am wondering how serious a bifascicular block is. Is it common among younger people? I am only 30 years old, and this showed up on my EKG. I was very surprised because I live a pretty healthy lifestyle. Do you have any ideas about what could have caused this and what steps I should take next?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concerns.

It is not common in the general population. It mostly occurs in individuals who have had a heart attack, angina, high blood pressure, or some form of valvular disease, especially involving the aortic valve. Another cause is fibrotic degeneration of the conduction pathways, though this is usually seen in older individuals due to age-related degeneration. The condition may progress slowly, potentially leading to a trifascicular block or complete heart block. Treatment is not necessary if the heart rate is normal.

However, if the heart rate decreases or the block progresses in the future, a cardiac pacemaker may be needed. The risk of this condition is that, if it is due to fibrosis, it could spontaneously progress over the course of years. Another risk is that if you experience angina or a heart attack in the future, there is a higher chance of the block progressing compared to those without this block. I recommend repeating the ECG (electrocardiogram), getting an echocardiogram to check for valvular disease if present, and monitoring your blood pressure.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.