Sick Sinus Syndrome

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis of sick sinus syndrome begins with a history and physical exam. A heart tracing, called an electrocardiogram or ECG, can confirm the diagnosis. This test records the electrical activity in the heart, which is abnormal when symptoms occur.

Because symptoms come and go, a Holter monitor is often used to track the electrical activity of the heart over a longer period of time. This monitor can be worn for 24 hours or more, so that a heart tracing can be obtained during symptoms. If the abnormal electrical activity of sick sinus syndrome is seen on the heart tracing when symptoms occur, the diagnosis can be made.