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The sinus node is a specialized group of cells in the upper chamber of the heart, the right atrium, that
creates electrical signals that regulate the pace and rhythm of the heartbeat. Normally, the sinus node
produces a regular, steady pattern of signals. With SSS, the pattern is irregular. The normal heart beat
should increase with activity and decrease with rest and sleep. With SSS, this function is disrupted, with
a heartbeat that is too slow for the patient's level of activity.
Most people with sick sinus syndrome have few or no symptoms. In others, symptoms may come and
go. These symptoms can include:
Fainting (syncope)
Weakness
Disturbed sleep
Confusion
While the exact cause of SSS is unknown, some factors, however, often are associated with the
condition, such as:
Age
Thyroid disease
Sleep apnea
Heart surgery
In rare cases, SSS may be associated with conditions such as:
Muscular dystrophy (an inherited condition in which the body’s muscles are damaged and weak)