Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Sick sinus syndrome
SINUS NODE DYSFUNCTION OR SINO-ATRIAL DISEASE
Sick sinus syndrome is a condition where the heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial node, doesn't work as it should
About sick sinus syndrome
Sick sinus syndrome or sino-atrial disease is a heart rhythm disorder often associated with electrical abnormalities in the atria, the heart’s upper chambers. It can cause heartbeats that are too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia). It may be aggravated by certain medicines.
Need to know
You may not have any symptoms with this condition. But symptoms may include:
- chest pain
- palpitations
- breathlessness
- fainting or blackouts
- a slower than normal pulse
- fatigue
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and any tests that you may need to have to confirm a diagnosis. These tests may include:
- an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the electrical activity of your heart
- an exercise ECG while you're walking on a treadmill
- a Holter monitor test to track your heart's rhythm over time
- an event recorder that samples your heart rate
- an implantable loop recorder to record your heart''s rhythm for up to three years
- an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of your heart
You may not need treatment for sick sinus syndrome if you don't have any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, your consultant will discuss your treatment options with you. Different treatment options include a pacemaker, a change of medicine and taking blood thinning medication.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.