A heart pause, specifically referring to a sinus pause (also known as sinus node dysfunction), is a temporary cessation of the heartbeat caused by a delay in the heart's electrical activity. This disruption originates within the sinus node, the heart's natural pacemaker.
Understanding Sinus Pauses
Here's a breakdown of what happens during a sinus pause:
- Electrical Signal Issue: The sinus node normally generates electrical impulses that trigger each heartbeat. During a sinus pause, there's a delay in either the generation or the conduction (propagation) of these electrical signals.
- Temporary Cessation: This delay causes a temporary stop in the heartbeat.
- ECG Absence of P-waves: On an electrocardiogram (EKG), which records the heart's electrical activity, sinus pauses are characterized by the absence of P-waves. P-waves represent the electrical activity associated with the atria's contraction. Their absence indicates a problem with the sinus node's ability to initiate that electrical signal.
Key Aspects of Sinus Pauses:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Alternative Names | Sinus Node Dysfunction |
| Cause | Delay in the generation or propagation of electrical current within the sinus node. |
| Effect | Temporary cessation of the heartbeat. |
| ECG Finding | Absence of P-waves. |
