Word: Atrioventricular Block
Definition: Atrioventricular block, often abbreviated as AV block, is a medical condition that affects the heart's ability to conduct electrical signals. This can lead to problems with the heartbeat, causing the heart to beat too slowly or irregularly. In severe cases, it can cause fainting or loss of consciousness because the heart does not pump blood effectively.
Usage Instructions: - Use "atrioventricular block" when discussing heart health, especially in medical contexts or when talking about heart conditions. - It is a technical term, so it might not be used often in everyday conversation unless someone is discussing health issues.
Example Sentence: "After the doctor diagnosed her with atrioventricular block, she was advised to monitor her heart rate regularly."
Advanced Usage: - In more advanced discussions, you might encounter different types of AV block, such as first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree atrioventricular block. Each type has different implications for heart function and treatment.
Word Variants: - AV Block: Common abbreviation for atrioventricular block. - Atrioventricular Node: The part of the heart's electrical system that can be affected by this condition.
Different Meanings: - While "atrioventricular block" specifically refers to a heart condition, in a broader sense, "block" can refer to any obstruction or interference in a process.
Synonyms: - Heart block (a more general term that can include atrioventricular block).
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to atrioventricular block, as it is a medical term. However, understanding phrases like "to block (something)" can help, as it means to obstruct or prevent something from happening, which relates to how the electrical signals in the heart are affected.