Sinus Pauses

Amara H. Estrada, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), University of Florida

ArticleSeptember 20141 min read

A normal sinus rhythm followed by a prolonged pause is appreciated in this heart sound. 

This pause could be an exaggerated sinus arrhythmia, but it could also be consistent with sick sinus syndrome. An ECG with an atropine challenge test should be performed if there is any history of exercise intolerance, weakness, or syncope.