Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Sick Sinus Syndrome
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a set of symptoms caused by abnormal electrical activity in a part of the heart called the sinus node.
What is going on in the body?
A collection of nerves in the heart form the heart's electrical system. This system is what keeps the heart beating. A part of this system, called the sinus node, usually generates the signal that causes the heart to beat. When the sinus node is damaged or doesn't function right, the heart may beat too slowly or even stop beating for a period of time. Irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias, can also occur. Sick sinus syndrome refers to the symptoms seen when the sinus node fails to work properly.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
In most cases, no cause can be found for sick sinus syndrome. SSS is usually seen in middle-aged and elderly people. Possible causes of sick sinus syndrome include: