What can be done to prevent the condition?

Most cases of sick sinus syndrome cannot be prevented. Careful selection of blood pressure and heart medications may avoid symptoms. Treatment of heart disease may help prevent the development of this syndrome in some cases.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

A person with sick sinus syndrome can injure himself or herself during a fainting episode. An individual with certain arrhythmias has an increased risk of blood clots, which can cause a stroke. There is also the rare risk of sudden death that can occur if the heart stops beating for a long period of time. Treatment can avoid most of these long-term effects if the diagnosis is made in time.

What are the risks to others?

Sick sinus syndrome is not contagious and poses no risks to others. Those who pass out may injure others if they are driving or performing other potentially dangerous activities.