Sinus node disease is an abnormality of the heart’s natural pacemaker – the sinus node. Delayed electrical discharges cause the heart to beat abnormally slow.
How common is it?
Sinus node disease affects approximately 1 in 600 of the population over the age of 65.
What symptoms might I get?
Some patients have symptoms such as palpitation, giddiness, breathlessness or blackouts.
Will I need treatment?
If the heart is beating too slowly then a pacemaker may be recommended.
What extra tests are required?
You will need an ECG and usually a heart monitor such as a 24-hour tape to make the diagnosis. Most patients require a heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) to examine the heart’s structure and function and some blood tests.
Is it hereditary?
No.
Does this affect my life expectancy?
With appropriate treatment and pacemaker therapy, life expectancy should not be affected.
What happens next?
If you have been diagnosed with sinus node disease a referral can be made to a local cardiologist to investigate further.
Useful links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinus_bradycardia