Heart block causes problems

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have a right bundle branch block, high blood pressure, diet controlled diabetes, angina pain, shortness of breath, etc. As I age (I’m 63) it becomes more bothersome. Any information would be helpful. Thank you.

DEAR READER: A bundle branch block results from an obstruction along the pathway that sends electrical impulses to the right or left side of the heart, making it increasingly difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently throughout your circulatory system. A left bundle branch block, the more serious one of the two, is commonly due to a form of heart disease, while a right block is less likely. That’s to your advantage. Some individuals can have a right block without any symptoms at all, while others may show signs of [Read more...]

Sarcoidosis affects organs

DEAR DR. GOTT: My wife was diagnosed with multi-organ sarcoidosis. It has caused a third-degree heart block. It has been identified in her lungs, brain, liver, lymph nodes and has caused severe skin lesions. Steroids have helped but she was taken off them because of rapid bone loss that will result in a hip replacement in the future. Her current panel of doctors seems to be stumped as to what to do next. Do we have any options, or is there any new treatment that maybe has not made its way to our area yet?

DEAR READER: Sarcoidosis is caused by the development and growth of clusters of inflammatory cells in various areas of the body. Most commonly, the lesions appear in the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes and skin.
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