{"id":1977,"date":"2026-06-12T07:33:22","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T07:33:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/?p=1977"},"modified":"2026-10-13T20:09:23","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T20:09:23","slug":"sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/","title":{"rendered":"Sick Sinus Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Sick Sinus Syndrome is a condition in which the heart cannot beat at the rate and rhythm required by the body because the sinoatrial node, which acts as the heart\u2019s natural pacemaker, loses its ability to generate electrical signals. This rhythm disorder may cause the heart to beat abnormally slowly for no apparent reason, experience dangerous pauses lasting several seconds between beats, or produce uncontrolled episodes of palpitations immediately after slowing down. This cardiovascular problem, which can also be described as a failure of the main switch in the heart\u2019s perfectly functioning autonomic electrical system, disrupts the dynamics of blood pumping because the heart cannot adapt to moment-to-moment metabolic demands. In short, it is a structural problem in which the heart completely loses its ability to manage its own electrical conduction and rate.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Why_Is_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Different_in_Adults_and_Children\" >Why Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Different in Adults and Children?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Which_Factors_Lead_to_the_Development_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_in_Childhood\" >Which Factors Lead to the Development of Sick Sinus Syndrome in Childhood?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#What_Are_the_Symptoms_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_in_Children_of_Different_Age_Groups\" >What Are the Symptoms of Sick Sinus Syndrome in Children of Different Age Groups?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#How_Are_Innocent_Rhythm_Disorders_Not_Confused_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\" >How Are Innocent Rhythm Disorders Not Confused with Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#How_Is_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Diagnosed_in_Pediatric_Cardiology\" >How Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed in Pediatric Cardiology?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Why_Are_Autonomic_Tests_and_Electrophysiological_Study_Important_in_the_Diagnosis_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\" >Why Are Autonomic Tests and Electrophysiological Study Important in the Diagnosis of Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Why_Can_Pediatric_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Not_Be_Treated_with_Medication\" >Why Can Pediatric Sick Sinus Syndrome Not Be Treated with Medication?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#When_Is_a_Permanent_Pacemaker_Mandatory_in_the_Treatment_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\" >When Is a Permanent Pacemaker Mandatory in the Treatment of Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Which_Methods_Are_Preferred_in_Pacemaker_Surgery_for_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\" >Which Methods Are Preferred in Pacemaker Surgery for Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#How_Does_the_Intensive_Care_Process_Proceed_After_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Surgery\" >How Does the Intensive Care Process Proceed After Sick Sinus Syndrome Surgery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#How_Should_a_Child_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Be_Cared_for_at_Home\" >How Should a Child with Sick Sinus Syndrome Be Cared for at Home?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#What_Is_the_Long-Term_Life_of_Children_Living_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Like\" >What Is the Long-Term Life of Children Living with Sick Sinus Syndrome Like?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/sick-sinus-syndrome-symptoms-and-causes\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Is_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Different_in_Adults_and_Children\"><\/span>Why Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Different in Adults and Children?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When rhythm disorders are investigated in adults, cellular degeneration processes that occur as a natural result of aging or blockages in the coronary vessels that supply the heart usually come to the forefront. With advancing age, the electrical pathways of the heart also wear out and begin to lose function, just like the electrical wiring of an old house. However, the situation is completely different in childhood. Children\u2019s hearts and cellular structures are young, their vessels are open, and cellular aging cannot be considered.<\/p>\n<p>Therefore, cases of Sick Sinus Syndrome encountered in the pediatric age group have much more specific underlying causes, mostly based on structural or genetic factors. Although this syndrome is rare in children, it generally appears as a side effect of severe infections, genetic factors, or major cardiac surgical procedures performed previously. When a rhythm disorder is detected in a child, instead of the usual age-related wear seen in older adults, these special conditions affecting the anatomy and cellular chemistry of the heart are investigated.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Factors_Lead_to_the_Development_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_in_Childhood\"><\/span>Which Factors Lead to the Development of Sick Sinus Syndrome in Childhood?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The factors that disrupt the electrical system of the heart and cause rhythm problems in children span a wide range. These factors may directly damage the structure of the heart or silently impair electrical conduction at the cellular level.<\/p>\n<p>The main causes that predispose to the development of the syndrome include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Congenital heart disease surgeries<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Ion channel gene mutations<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Severe electrolyte and calcium imbalances<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Use of medications that slow the heart rhythm<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Among these causes, the most frequently encountered situation in pediatric cardiology clinics is complex surgical operations performed to correct congenital heart anomalies. Surgeries are performed to save the lives of children who have holes in the heart during infancy, reversed vascular connections, or abnormalities in the atrial structure. While surgeons intervene in the chambers of the heart, the sutures placed and incisions made may unfortunately coincide with the areas through which the heart\u2019s invisible electrical wires pass. Over time, scar tissue called fibrosis develops in the operated area. This scar tissue cannot conduct electricity and gradually surrounds the sinoatrial node over the years, causing it to lose function.<\/p>\n<p>Another important cause is genetically inherited ion channel disease. On the surface of heart cells, there are microscopic gates called ion channels that allow elements such as sodium and calcium to enter and leave the cell. If these gates are defective because of a genetic mutation, the heart\u2019s ability to generate its own electricity is directly reduced. In addition, inflammatory damage left in the heart by severe viral infections or metabolic problems such as an underactive thyroid gland may also slow the rate of electrical impulse generation in the heart to dangerous levels.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Symptoms_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_in_Children_of_Different_Age_Groups\"><\/span>What Are the Symptoms of Sick Sinus Syndrome in Children of Different Age Groups?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The way the disease manifests varies greatly depending on the child\u2019s age, developmental stage, and ability to express complaints. The main source of the problem is that the amount of fresh blood pumped to the body, particularly to the brain, becomes insufficient as a result of the heart slowing down or pausing momentarily. Inadequate delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the tissues creates various clinical conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Common findings in infants include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Becoming tired quickly while feeding<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Unexplained paleness of the skin<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Persistent restlessness<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Excessive tendency to sleep<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Infants cannot say that their heart has slowed down or skipped a beat. For a baby, the most demanding physical activity requiring effort is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. A baby whose heart cannot increase its rate sufficiently becomes tired after a few sips, stops feeding, and becomes short of breath. Since this condition usually causes very general symptoms, recognizing that the underlying cause is a rhythm problem requires considerable expertise.<\/p>\n<p>Symptoms seen in older children and adolescents include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Chest pain during physical activity<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">A marked reduction in exercise capacity compared with before<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">A feeling of chronic weakness<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Sudden dizziness<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Fainting episodes<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Nightmares<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Children in this age group notice that they become tired much more quickly than their peers when climbing stairs. When the pause between heartbeats exceeds several seconds, blood flow to the brain suddenly stops and the child may suddenly collapse and faint. These fainting episodes, called syncope, are extremely frightening for families. On the other hand, in young athletes who engage in intensive sports at a professional level, a very slow heart rate at rest is usually a completely physiological condition. A strong athlete\u2019s heart slows down at rest to conserve energy; this is a healthy adaptation and should never be considered a disease.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Are_Innocent_Rhythm_Disorders_Not_Confused_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\"><\/span>How Are Innocent Rhythm Disorders Not Confused with Sick Sinus Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Children\u2019s hearts have very different and more flexible dynamics than those of adults. Changes in heart rate with breathing are extremely common and completely normal in children. The heart speeding up during inhalation and slowing down during exhalation is one of the clearest signs of how perfectly and harmoniously the heart works with the nervous system. This respiratory rhythm variation, called sinus arrhythmia, is never a disease and does not require any medical intervention.<\/p>\n<p>Likewise, some innocent block conditions in which the duration of electrical conduction between the atria and ventricles is slightly prolonged do not cause any complaints in children. If the electrical signal reaches its destination without difficulty, even with a slight delay, the condition is considered physiological. However, if the electrical signal is completely lost along the way, the heartbeats become irregular, and the child faints, then a true interruption in the heart\u2019s electrical pathways is suspected and advanced investigations are initiated.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Diagnosed_in_Pediatric_Cardiology\"><\/span>How Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed in Pediatric Cardiology?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The diagnostic process requires combining clues like a detective. Malfunctions in the heart\u2019s electrical system are generally not continuous; just like a loose electrical cable, it may sometimes work normally and sometimes stop completely. Therefore, it is often not possible to make a definitive diagnosis with a single test that shows only the situation at that moment.<\/p>\n<p>The main methods used in clinical evaluation include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Surface electrocardiogram<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Twenty-four-hour rhythm Holter monitoring<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Long-term event recorders<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Exercise stress test<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The first procedure performed when the child presents to the outpatient clinic is an electrocardiogram, or ECG. An ECG takes a snapshot of the heart\u2019s electrical map at that moment. However, if the rhythm disorder is not occurring during those seconds, the ECG may appear completely normal. At this point, rhythm Holter monitoring comes into play. With small electrodes attached to the child\u2019s chest, the heart rhythm is recorded continuously for twenty-four or forty-eight hours. How the heart behaves while the child sleeps at home, runs at school, or eats is monitored second by second. The most important objective is to determine what type of electrical malfunction occurs in the heart during the time when the child feels dizzy or faints.<\/p>\n<p>In children whose complaints occur less frequently, event recorder devices that can be worn for weeks are used. An exercise stress test is performed to assess the child\u2019s capacity under exertion. While the child runs on a treadmill, it is observed whether the heart rate increases sufficiently. If the child\u2019s heart cannot speed up despite exercise, a clear functional disorder of the sinoatrial node is identified.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Are_Autonomic_Tests_and_Electrophysiological_Study_Important_in_the_Diagnosis_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\"><\/span>Why Are Autonomic Tests and Electrophysiological Study Important in the Diagnosis of Sick Sinus Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sometimes slow heartbeats in children are caused not by a structural disease of the heart itself but by excessive suppression of the heart by the autonomic nervous system. Distinguishing this condition, known as increased vagal tone, from true Sick Sinus Syndrome is vitally important. To make this distinction, pharmacological tests are performed in a controlled environment. With the administration of a special medication, the suppressive effect of the nervous system on the heart is temporarily removed. If the heart rate rises to the expected level immediately after the medication is given, it is understood that the heart\u2019s main switch is intact and that the problem is only neural suppression.<\/p>\n<p>However, in children for whom a definitive conclusion cannot be reached despite all external tests and who continue to experience risky situations such as fainting, an advanced examination called an electrophysiological study is planned. During this procedure, very thin wires are inserted into the heart and the electrical map is obtained directly from inside. Controlled impulses are delivered to and stopped at the electrical center of the heart, and the time required for the heart to regain its own rhythm is measured with millisecond precision. If this recovery time is longer than a certain limit, it is the clearest evidence that the sinoatrial node has completely lost its function and directly determines the treatment strategy.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Can_Pediatric_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Not_Be_Treated_with_Medication\"><\/span>Why Can Pediatric Sick Sinus Syndrome Not Be Treated with Medication?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Although medications provide highly successful results in the treatment of many heart diseases, unfortunately there is no reliable long-term medication treatment for Sick Sinus Syndrome. The main reason for this is a difficult therapeutic dilemma encountered in medicine. Particularly in bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome, the most complex form of the disease, the heart both slows down excessively and suddenly speeds up, producing dangerous palpitations.<\/p>\n<p>There are medications that can be used to stop the excessively rapid and potentially life-threatening palpitations that occur in these children. However, all of these medications work by slowing the overall rate of the heart. When these medications are given to stop the palpitations, the heart\u2019s already diseased and intermittently pausing main electrical center is suppressed even more strongly. Even if the palpitations stop under the effect of the medication, deep pauses lasting several seconds begin afterward, and the child then faints because the heart has slowed excessively. This vicious cycle makes it impossible to intervene with medications alone without establishing an external mechanical safety system for the heart\u2019s electrical network.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Is_a_Permanent_Pacemaker_Mandatory_in_the_Treatment_of_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\"><\/span>When Is a Permanent Pacemaker Mandatory in the Treatment of Sick Sinus Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The inadequacy of medication treatment and the risks it creates make permanent pacemaker implantation an absolute necessity in children with symptomatic Sick Sinus Syndrome. However, the decision to implant a pacemaker in children is based on highly sensitive criteria. A child without any complaints does not undergo surgery merely because the heart rate appears slightly slow on testing.<\/p>\n<p>The primary requirement for pacemaker implantation is the presence of serious symptoms accompanying electrical pauses in the heart. Device implantation is lifesaving in children who faint frequently, cannot run and play with their peers, have very low exercise capacity, and have documented life-threatening pauses. After the pacemaker is implanted, the device forms a safety barrier, and the heart can no longer slow to dangerous levels. This also makes it possible to safely prescribe the anti-palpitations medications mentioned above.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Methods_Are_Preferred_in_Pacemaker_Surgery_for_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome\"><\/span>Which Methods Are Preferred in Pacemaker Surgery for Sick Sinus Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Pacemaker implantation in pediatric patients requires a different strategy from adult surgery because the child has not yet completed physical development. The child\u2019s weight, body structure, and vessel diameters determine the type of operation.<\/p>\n<p>The preferred surgical methods include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Transvenous endocardial method<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Epicardial method on the outer surface of the heart<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The transvenous approach is used in older children and adolescents whose body development has reached a certain stage and whose vessel diameters are sufficiently large. The thin wires of the pacemaker are inserted into the chambers of the heart through a vein beneath the collarbone. The battery of the device is placed in a small pocket created under the skin in the chest area. The advantage of this method is that the surgical process is shorter. However, as the child grows, the wires inside the vessels may become stretched.<\/p>\n<p>The epicardial approach is generally preferred in infants, very young children, or patients with complex heart disease who have congenital holes inside the heart. In this method, the chest is opened and the wires are sutured directly onto the outer surface of the heart rather than passed through the vessels. The battery is safely placed beneath the muscles in the child\u2019s abdominal area. The operation is more extensive, but this method completely eliminates the risk of the wires obstructing the vessels or becoming excessively stretched during the child\u2019s rapid growth phase.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_the_Intensive_Care_Process_Proceed_After_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Surgery\"><\/span>How Does the Intensive Care Process Proceed After Sick Sinus Syndrome Surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Since pacemaker implantation is a significant surgical procedure, the first days after the operation must be spent in a pediatric cardiology intensive care unit. After the procedure, the child\u2019s heart rate, blood pressure, and the blood supply to the organs are continuously monitored with special devices. During this process, whether the device is sensing correctly and how well the heart is responding to the pacemaker are tested step by step.<\/p>\n<p>Maintaining the child\u2019s body temperature in intensive care is very important because shivering or severe cold may alter the heart\u2019s electrical sensitivity and cause the device to make temporary incorrect detections. In addition, wound cleaning and bleeding control are carried out with great care. Infection in the area where the device is implanted is one of the most feared complications of pacemaker surgery. Therefore, prophylactic, meaning preventive, antibiotic treatments are administered completely, and the patient is transferred to a regular room after tissue healing has been closely monitored.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Should_a_Child_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Be_Cared_for_at_Home\"><\/span>How Should a Child with Sick Sinus Syndrome Be Cared for at Home?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Discharge from the hospital is only the first step in the recovery process; afterward, the family must adapt to a new way of life. During the first week after returning home, until the surgical wound has completely healed and the sutures have been removed, the area must not become wet and must be kept dry. To allow the pacemaker leads to attach securely to the heart, the child must not be allowed to sleep face down during the first weeks. In addition, excessive lifting or straining of the arm on the side where the pacemaker was implanted above head level must be prevented. However, because keeping the arm completely immobile may cause permanent stiffness in the shoulder joint, comfortable movement of the elbow and hand should be encouraged.<\/p>\n<p>Families should learn how to correctly count their child\u2019s pulse from the wrist or neck artery. Pulse measurements should be taken regularly every day and the values recorded in a notebook. Although rare, it is possible for a malfunction to occur in the device.<\/p>\n<p>Signs indicating a problem with the device include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Unexplained persistent hiccups<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Continuous fatigue and weakness<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Unexplained dizziness<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Dimming of vision or fainting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Particularly persistent hiccups that cannot be stopped may indicate that the pacemaker lead is accidentally sending signals to the diaphragm muscle instead of stimulating the heart and require technical evaluation.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Long-Term_Life_of_Children_Living_with_Sick_Sinus_Syndrome_Like\"><\/span>What Is the Long-Term Life of Children Living with Sick Sinus Syndrome Like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is no obstacle preventing children with pacemakers from living normal, healthy, and happy lives. At discharge, the family is given an official pacemaker identification card containing the characteristics of the device and the programmed limits. This card must be carried for life because individuals with pacemakers need to pay attention to certain special situations in daily life.<\/p>\n<p>Things that should be avoided include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">X-ray security scanners<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Store anti-theft alarm gates<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">High-voltage power lines<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Industrial-strength magnets<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">MRI machines if the pacemaker is not compatible with magnetic resonance imaging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The very strong electromagnetic fields emitted by these devices may temporarily disrupt the software of the pacemaker or cause the wires inside it to heat up. In particular, entering an MRI machine with a standard pacemaker that does not have special protection is absolutely dangerous.<\/p>\n<p>Psychologically, it is extremely important that children do not feel deficient or restricted. Overprotective attitudes from families may harm the child\u2019s psychology more than the disease itself. Except for heavy contact sports such as boxing, karate, or American football, where there is a risk of a severe and direct impact to the chest area, the child is encouraged to participate in all kinds of physical activities. Running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis with friends at school are necessary to strengthen the heart. The battery of the pacemaker, called the generator, has an average lifespan of six to seven years. When this period ends, only the battery under the skin is replaced with a new one through a small and short procedure without touching the wires inside the heart, and the child safely continues a healthy life.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1976615310\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1976615310-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-is-sick-sinus-syndrome-and-how-does-it-affect-the-heart?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1976615310-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>What is Sick Sinus Syndrome and how does it affect the heart?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1976615310-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1976615310-label\">\n\t\t\t\nSick Sinus Syndrome is a rhythm disorder that occurs when the sinus node, the heart\u2019s natural rhythm center, does not function normally. It may cause the heart rate to slow down, become irregular, or pause.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-131739706\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-131739706-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-are-the-symptoms-of-sick-sinus-syndrome?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-131739706-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>What are the symptoms of Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-131739706-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-131739706-label\">\n\t\t\t\nDizziness, weakness, fatigue with minimal effort, shortness of breath, palpitations, fainting, and difficulty concentrating are among the most common symptoms of Sick Sinus Syndrome.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-454584004\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-454584004-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-why-does-sick-sinus-syndrome-occur?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-454584004-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Why does Sick Sinus Syndrome occur?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-454584004-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-454584004-label\">\n\t\t\t\nAge-related conduction system disorders, heart diseases, heart surgery, certain medications, and, rarely, congenital rhythm system problems may cause Sick Sinus Syndrome.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-3920438190\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-3920438190-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-can-sick-sinus-syndrome-occur-in-children?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-3920438190-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Can Sick Sinus Syndrome occur in children?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-3920438190-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-3920438190-label\">\n\t\t\t\nYes, although rare, it can occur in children. Congenital heart diseases, changes that develop after heart surgery, or certain genetic diseases may lead to this condition.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-4139551521\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-4139551521-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-sick-sinus-syndrome-cause-palpitations-and-rhythm-disorders?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-4139551521-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Does Sick Sinus Syndrome cause palpitations and rhythm disorders?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-4139551521-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-4139551521-label\">\n\t\t\t\nYes, in some patients the heart rhythm becomes excessively slow, while at other times rapid rhythm disorders may also develop. This condition may be called tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1135718394\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1135718394-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-is-sick-sinus-syndrome-diagnosed?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1135718394-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>How is Sick Sinus Syndrome diagnosed?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1135718394-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1135718394-label\">\n\t\t\t\nElectrocardiography (ECG), Holter rhythm monitoring, event recorders, and, when necessary, advanced electrophysiological examinations may be used for diagnosis. These tests make it possible to evaluate the rhythm disorder.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1459571776\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1459571776-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-can-sick-sinus-syndrome-cause-fainting?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1459571776-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Can Sick Sinus Syndrome cause fainting?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1459571776-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1459571776-label\">\n\t\t\t\nYes, the blood flow to the brain may decrease because the heart rate becomes excessively slow. As a result, dizziness, dimming of vision, and fainting episodes may occur.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2543159760\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2543159760-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-is-sick-sinus-syndrome-treated?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2543159760-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>How is Sick Sinus Syndrome treated?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2543159760-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2543159760-label\">\n\t\t\t\nTreatment is planned according to the severity of the symptoms and the degree of the rhythm disorder. It may include adjustment of medications, treatment of underlying causes, and, when necessary, implantation of a permanent pacemaker.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-4032020102\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-4032020102-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-when-is-a-pacemaker-needed-in-sick-sinus-syndrome?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-4032020102-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>When is a pacemaker needed in Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-4032020102-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-4032020102-label\">\n\t\t\t\nPacemaker treatment may be considered if there is frequent fainting, severe slowing of the heart rhythm, or symptoms affecting daily life. The decision is made after evaluation by a cardiology specialist.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2807980849\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2807980849-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-which-doctor-should-be-consulted-for-sick-sinus-syndrome?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2807980849-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Which doctor should be consulted for Sick Sinus Syndrome?<\/span>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2807980849-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2807980849-label\">\n\t\t\t\nPeople with suspected Sick Sinus Syndrome should consult a Cardiology specialist. In pediatric patients, the evaluation and follow-up process should be carried out by Pediatric Cardiology specialists.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sick Sinus Syndrome is a condition in which the heart cannot beat at the rate and rhythm required by the body because the sinoatrial node, which acts as the heart\u2019s natural pacemaker, loses its ability to generate electrical signals. This rhythm disorder may cause the heart to beat abnormally slowly for no apparent reason, experience [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1976,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1977","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1977","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1977"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1977\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3108,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1977\/revisions\/3108"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1976"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1977"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1977"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cansaran.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1977"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}