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FaintingFeeling dizzyFeeling tiredTrouble breathingChest painThird degree " � This is the most serious type of heart block. It can cause the same symptoms as second degree, but they will be more severe. In some cases, third degree heart block can be life threatening.
Is there a test for heart block? " � Yes. Your doctor or nurse will probably do a test called an electrocardiogram (also called an "ECG " � or "EKG " �). This test measures the electrical activity in your heart (figure 1). � �
You might also need other tests to see if another condition is causing your slow heartbeat. � �
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � If you have trouble breathing or have chest pain that lasts for more than a few minutes, call for an ambulance (in the US and Canada, dial 9-1-1). � �
If you do not have these problems, but you often notice your heart beating slowly or skipping beats, talk to your doctor or nurse. � �
How is heart block treated? " � The treatment depends on the type of heart block you have. Often, people who have first degree heart block do not need treatment. But people who have third degree heart block and some people who have second degree heart block need a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a device that goes under the skin near a persons heart. It sends electrical signals to the heart that help it beat at a normal rate. � �
Can heart block be prevented? " � People who have heart disease are more likely to get heart block. Doing things that keep your heart healthy can help prevent heart disease. This includes: � �
- Eating a healthy diet. This involves eating lots of fruits and vegetables and low-fat dairy products, but not a lot of meat or fatty foods.
- Walking or doing a physical activity on most days of the week.
- Losing weight, if you are overweight.
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 17118 Version 8.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.206 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
figure 1
Person having an ECG
This drawing shows a man having an ECG (also called an electrocardiogram or EKG). He has patches, called "electrodes," stuck onto his chest, arms, and legs. Wires run from the electrodes to the ECG machine. An ECG measures the electrical activity in the heart.
Graphic 53145 Version 2.0
View Originalfigure 1
Person having an ECG
This drawing shows a man having an ECG (also called an electrocardiogram or EKG). He has patches, called "electrodes," stuck onto his chest, arms, and legs. Wires run from the electrodes to the ECG machine. An ECG measures the electrical activity in the heart.
Graphic 53145 Version 2.0
View Original
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