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Types of ResourcesAlso known as sinus node disease or sinus node dysfunction
Sick sinus syndrome occurs when the sinus node – the heart’s natural pacemaker – sends improper pulses that either slow or quicken the heartbeat. A person with SSS may have a heart rhythm that is too slow (bradycardia), too fast (tachycardia), or one that alternates between the fast and slow (bradycardia-tachycardia).
Symptoms
- Slow pulse (bradycardia)
- Fainting (syncope)
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Sleep disturbance
- Confusion
- Palpitations
Risk Factors
While the exact cause of SSS is unknown, some factors, however, often are associated with the condition, such as:
- Age
- Previous heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Medications to treat high blood pressure and other heart diseases
- Hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood)
- Thyroid disease
- Sleep apnea
- Heart surgery
Diagnosis
Sick Sinus Syndrome can be hard to diagnose because symptoms are similar to other diseases. Tests that help determine the cause include:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
- Holter monitoring
- Event recorder (portable EKG)
- Implantable loop recorder
Treatment
Potential treatment options include:
- Adjusting current medications
- Controlling heart rhythm and pace with a pacemaker
- Managing with medications
- Having a radiofrequency ablation procedure
- Making healthier lifestyle choices (diet, stress management, etc.) as recommended by your doctor, or through Elranger's Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.
The electrophysiologists UT Erlanger Cardiology are leaders - and international physician trainers - in the diagnosis and treatment of SSS and other heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). Contact us to learn more.
Erlanger Cardiology
Erlanger Medical Mall
979 East 3rd Street
Suite C-520
Chattanooga, TN 37403
423-778-5661