Although not a dangerous finding in and of itself, axis deviation may be an indication of a serious underlying condition. A careful history to elicit acute cardiac injury is therefore of utmost importance.
Does left axis deviation mean heart disease?
The results were that the development of left axis deviation in men 40 to 59 yr of age, independent of blood pressure is a significant predictor of ischemic heart disease events that are usually manifest 5 to 10 yr after the onset of this electrocardiographic abnormality.
What are the symptoms of left axis deviation?
Symptoms
Shortness of breath.Fatigue.Chest pain, often after exercising.Sensation of rapid, fluttering or pounding heartbeats (palpitations)Dizziness or fainting.
How is left axis deviation treated?
Your doctor might recommend medications including:
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. These medications widen blood vessels to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow and decrease the heart’s workload. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Calcium channel blockers. Diuretics. Beta blockers.
When is left axis deviation normal?
Although memorizing the above picture is crucial to accurately determining axis, some shortcuts to quickly determine the axis are outlined below. The normal QRS axis should be between -30 and +90 degrees. Left axis deviation is defined as the major QRS vector, falling between -30 and -90 degrees.
Why is axis deviation important?
Right axis deviation (RAD) involves the direction of depolarisation being distorted to the right (between +90º and +180º). The most common cause of RAD is right ventricular hypertrophy. Extra right ventricular tissue results in a stronger electrical signal being generated by the right side of the heart.
