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Definitions from WordNet

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Term: Heart block

Description:

Heart block refers to a medical condition where the electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat are disrupted or slowed. This disruption can occur at any level of the heart's electrical system, leading to a delay or complete blockage of the signal transmission. Heart block can range in severity, from mild and asymptomatic cases to life-threatening situations requiring immediate medical attention.

Senses and Usages:

Sense 1 (Medical):

In a medical context, heart block commonly refers to a condition known as atrioventricular (AV) block. AV block is characterized by a delay or interruption in the electrical signals between the heart's upper chambers (atria) and lower chambers (ventricles). This disruption can lead to an irregular or slow heartbeat, causing symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Sample Sentence: The patient was diagnosed with a second-degree heart block, requiring the insertion of a pacemaker for proper heart rhythm.

Sense 2 (Popular):

Outside the medical field, heart block can be used metaphorically to convey a temporary or permanent halt in emotional or romantic feelings between individuals. It refers to a state where one person's affection or love for another has diminished or ceased altogether.

Sample Sentence: After the betrayal, Sarah's heart block prevented her from ever trusting him again.

Sense 3 (Local):

In some regions, "heart block" can also refer to a local culinary specialty. This dish typically involves a heart-shaped block of food that is creatively prepared and served as a unique delicacy to showcase regional cuisine or as an artistic culinary presentation.

Sample Sentence: The restaurant's signature dessert was a delightful heart block made of rich chocolate mousse, shaped like a heart and garnished with edible flowers.