Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia

Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) or Sinus Node Dysfunction results from a malfunctioning SA Node, the natural pacemaker of the heart. It usually presents as an inappropriately slow heart rate and may cause weakness, fatigue, or syncope (fainting). Occasionally, it can present as rapid heart beat, e.g. atrial fibrillation.

SSS occurs due to Hypertension (high blood pressure), Coronary Artery Disease (clogging of the arteries of the heart), or degenerative disease of the node as a result of aging or other unclear reasons. Certain medications, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, can often worsen the symptoms of SSS.

SSS is easily treated with permanent pacemakers. It accounts for over half of all permanent pacemakers implanted in the United States.

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