These include damage to the SA node itself, inflammation of degeneration of the nerves surrounding the node, disease-related changes in the wall of the atrium, fat accumulation, and fibrosis. Degenerative changes in the SA node become more common with age. A person with sick sinus syndrome may experience more than one type of rhythm abnormality. Some people may experience persistent bradycardia or intermittent sinus block or arrest. An episode of tachycardia may be followed by a long pause before normal sinus rhythm is reestablished.
Symptoms are dependent on the predominant rhythm abnormalities.
In severe cases, loss of consciousness may occur. T reatment for sick sinus syndrome almost always involves implantation of an artificial pacemaker. Arrhythmia medications may be added if necessary. Some, such as occasional premature beats, require no treatment at all and are more of an annoyance than a serious health problem. Others can be life-threatening emergencies.