Diagnosis
If you have a right bundle branch block and you're otherwise healthy, you might not need a full medical checkup. If you have a left bundle branch block, you will need a thorough medical exam.
Tests that can be used to diagnose a bundle branch block or its causes include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This quick and painless test measures the electrical activity of the heart. During an electrocardiogram (ECG), sensors (electrodes) are attached to the chest and sometimes to the arms or legs. An can show how well the heart is beating. It can show signs of a bundle branch block, as well as which side of the heart is being affected.
- Echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to provide detailed images of the heart and heart valves. It can show the structure and the thickness of the heart muscle. Your provider can use this test to pinpoint a condition that caused the bundle branch block.
Treatment
Most people with bundle branch block don't have symptoms and don't need treatment. For example, left bundle branch block is not treated with medications. However, treatment depends on the specific symptoms and other heart conditions.
Medications
If you have a heart condition causing bundle branch block, treatment might involve medications to reduce high blood pressure or reduce symptoms of heart failure.
Surgeries and other procedures
If you have bundle branch block and a history of fainting, your health care provider might recommend a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a small device implanted under the skin of the upper chest. Two wires connect it to the right side of the heart. The pacemaker releases electrical impulses when needed to keep the heart beating regularly.
If you have bundle branch block with low heart-pumping function, you may need cardiac resynchronization therapy (biventricular pacing). This treatment is similar to having a pacemaker implanted. But you'll have a third wire connected to the left side of your heart so the device can keep both sides in proper rhythm. Cardiac resynchronization therapy helps the heart's chambers squeeze (contract) in a more organized and efficient way.
Preparing for your appointment
You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor. You might be referred to a doctor trained in heart disorders (cardiologist).
Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.
What you can do
Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions. When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance. For example, you may need to limit or avoid caffeine before having heart function tests.
Make a list of:
- Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment, when they began and how often they occur
- Key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes
- All medications, vitamins and supplements you take, including the doses
- Questions to ask your health care provider
Ask a family member or friend to come with you, if possible, to help you remember the information you receive.
For bundle branch block, questions to ask your provider include:
- What are the most likely causes of my symptoms?
- What tests do I need?
- What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
- Will the bundle branch block return after treatment?
- What side effects might I expect from treatment?
- I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
- Do you have brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?
What to expect from your doctor
Your health care provider is likely to ask you questions, including:
- Does anything seem to improve your symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
- Has a health care provider ever told you that you have a bundle branch block?