Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Heart block is a condition where the electrical signals that control heartbeats are partially or completely blocked from reaching certain areas of the heart. This can cause irregular heart rhythms or slower heart rates.
Related terms
Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia is an irregularity in the heart's rhythm, which can result from conditions like heart block.
Pacemaker: A pacemaker is a medical device implanted to regulate the heartbeat, often used in cases where heart block prevents the heart from beating properly on its own.