If the underlying disease does not get worse, then the heart block is of no real import. If a new heart block appears suddenly where none existed before it can indicate a heart attack . In summary, the worse the underlying disease the worse the block. The worse the block the slower the heart rate. The slower the rate the worse the symptoms.
Heart block causes no risk to others.
Many times heart blocks are not treated at all. Treatment of other heart problems reduces the risk of the block getting worse. In some cases, the block becomes so severe that heart can no longer beat at the proper pace. When this occurs, an electrical device called a pacemaker can be used to help the heart beat at the proper rate. Medications can also be used to help restore the heart rate.