Overview
Atrial flutter is a type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia) where the heart's upper chambers (atria) beat too quickly, causing a fast, but usually regular, rhythm. It is similar to atrial fibrillation, but the heartbeats are more organized. Atrial flutter can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Treatments include medication or ablation procedures to scar small areas of heart tissue.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of atrial flutter may include a fast, regular heartbeat, palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, reduced ability to exercise, and shortness of breath. However, some people with atrial flutter may not experience any symptoms. It's important to note that the symptoms of atrial flutter can be similar to those of atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias. If you suspect you or someone else is experiencing atrial flutter or any other heart-related symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing atrial flutter include:
- Heart problems and diseases, such as coronary artery disease, other heart problems, previous heart surgery, and heart damage.
- High blood pressure.
- Congenital heart disease.
- Thyroid disease. It is important to note that atrial flutter is a type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia) caused by problems in the heart's electrical system. It is similar to atrial fibrillation but has a more organized and less chaotic heart rhythm. Atrial flutter may not have symptoms, but it can still increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Effective treatments, including medication or procedures like ablation, are available for atrial flutter.
Development
Atrial flutter is caused by problems in the heart's electrical system, leading to a rapid but usually regular heart rhythm in the upper chambers (atria). It is a type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia). Atrial flutter is similar to atrial fibrillation but the heartbeats are more organized. Atrial flutter can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Effective treatments include medication or ablation procedures to scar small areas of heart tissue.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If atrial flutter is suspected, you should see a doctor if you experience any symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, reduced ability to exercise, shortness of breath, or weakness. Additionally, seek immediate medical help if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or near fainting, and chest pain or discomfort. If the irregular heartbeat is constant and lasts longer than 12 months, medical treatment is needed to correct the irregular heartbeat.
Management and Treatment
Complications
The potential complications of atrial flutter include an increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. Atrial flutter can lead to the formation of blood clots in the heart, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. The disorder can also reduce the heart's efficiency in pumping blood, potentially leading to heart failure over time. It is essential to seek medical attention and follow recommended treatments to manage the risks associated with atrial flutter.
Treatment
Treatments for atrial flutter include medication and procedures designed to scar small areas of heart tissue (ablation). Medications may help regulate the heart's rhythm, and ablation techniques can destroy the specific tissue causing the abnormal heartbeat. In some cases, a combination of medications and ablation may be recommended. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.