Sick Sinus Syndrome

Sick sinus syndrome is the name for heart rhythm problems that happen because your sinoatrial node (or sinus node) isn’t working right. The sinus node acts like a pacemaker that kicks off each heartbeat. Also called the SA node, the sinus node is like a drummer starting and keeping the beat for others to follow. Musicians listen to the drummer so they know when to start and stop. In this case, your SA node is telling the other areas of your heart when it’s time to do their part.

When your SA node isn’t working right, you can have a heartbeat that’s too slow (bradycardia).

What is the difference between sick sinus syndrome and atrial fibrillation (afib)?

With sick sinus syndrome, your SA node isn’t working correctly.

With atrial fibrillation, rogue electrical signals in your upper chambers override your SA node’s normal signals. This gives your upper chambers an abnormal beat.

What is the difference between sick sinus syndrome and AV block?

Sick sinus syndrome is a problem with your sinoatrial (SA) node, which sends signals to your upper heart chambers.

Atrioventricular (AV) block is a problem with your AV node, which sends signals to your lower heart chambers.

Who does sick sinus syndrome affect?

Healthcare providers usually see sick sinus syndrome in people who are older than 60 years of age.

How common is sick sinus syndrome?

Sick sinus syndrome isn’t common. American providers diagnosed 78,000 new cases in 2012 but expect to see 172,000 new cases in 2060.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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