Sick Sinus Syndrome

The Dr has told me that I have Sick Sinus Syndrome.  I have not fainted or passed out. He says I have to have pacemaker.  My pulse goes to 29 at night with 3 second pauses.  It ranges in the 42-48 at rest during the day.  It can go up regular with exercise, I am 55 I had kidney cancer 4 years ago and have one kidney could  the slow heart rate be from anything about my kidney?

[Michael J. McWilliams, M.D.]

It probably has nothing to do with our kidneys.  I do not see a connection.  Pauses at night are usually not a indication for a pacemaker.  The key is if you are having symptoms during the day when you are awake.  If in doubt, get a second opinion.  If you are fatigued or run down, heart rates that low can sometimes cause subtle symptoms that you don't know you had until after you get the pacemaker.   I hope this helps.

[jjgreen]

Thanks it does help. I did get a second opinion and he was not as strong about the pacemaker but felt it was the way to go.  He said I could wait till I did pass out and maybe hurt myself or someone else.  I am light headed  during the day but have not passed out.  They said that because I am light headed during the day and that my pulse is so low at night it is most certain sick sinus syndrome and the only way to deal with it is a pacemaker.  Thanks for you answer.