What is ‘Sick Sinus’… and how is it related to arrhythmia?
Sick sinus syndrome (Sick sinus syndrome) is one of the arrhythmia conditions caused by dysfunction of the sinus node, which controls the heart’s rhythm. This condition can result in a heart rate that is slower or faster than normal and also reduces blood pumping efficiency. It causes patients to experience symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, seizures, and fainting!
Arrhythmia… Suspecting sick sinus syndrome, what should you do?
Sick sinus syndrome often occurs in the elderly, caused by degeneration of the sinus node, scarring of the electrical pathways in the heart muscle due to ischemia, valvular heart disease, or certain medications. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. For example, if caused by medication, doctors will advise stopping the causative drug. However, most treatments require patients to have a pacemaker implantation. If unusual symptoms appear, patients should see a doctor promptly and not delay, as complications from the disease can occur suddenly.
Resetting heart rhythm with a pacemaker (Pacemaker Implantation)
When unusual symptoms appear, patients should see a doctor promptly. The doctor will perform a physical examination and diagnose based on ECG results before restoring normal heart rhythm by implanting a pacemaker into the heart lining. The pacemaker controls the heart rhythm efficiently by performing the following functions:
- Monitoring the function of different heart chambers through electrical signal leads
- Sending stimulation signals to prompt the heart to contract immediately when abnormal heart rates are detected
- Controlling heartbeats accurately in real time
- Enhancing the efficiency of the blood pumping system to meet the body’s needs
After pacemaker implantation, doctors will follow up on treatment results and device function at least every 6 months to adjust the device for optimal performance.
Q&A: Frequently asked questions about living daily with a pacemaker
Implanting a pacemaker is the best treatment for arrhythmia that targets the root cause. Although it may feel unfamiliar to patients initially, it does not significantly affect daily life as many people often wonder.
Q: Can I use household electrical appliances as usual?
A: Electrical appliances at home or work do not interfere with the pacemaker’s function. Patients can perform daily activities normally.
Q: Can I exercise or lift weights as before?
A: For 3-4 weeks after surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activities. After that, patients can exercise and play sports normally. If heavy lifting is frequent, consult a doctor for proper guidance.
Q: Can I undergo MRI scans?
A: Medical examinations can still be done normally, such as CT scans, dental work, endoscopy, and laser surgery. However, extra caution is needed for high-frequency tests like ultrasound, electrocautery, and radiation therapy. Patients must inform their doctors beforehand.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The battery life is approximately 5-10 years, depending on the energy used for stimulation each time or the programmed usage percentage. Battery life can be monitored during follow-up visits.
“Prevention is better than cure” is a phrase that applies well to health. Everyone wants to stay healthy for a long time, but nature’s rules are not set that way. Regular self-monitoring is important for the elderly, as well as for close ones who should not overlook any symptoms or concerns, especially heart-related symptoms, which the elderly are most at risk for.
