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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Heart Flutter?
Introduction
Heart flutter, also known as atrial flutter, is a type of abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that occurs when the heart's electrical signals cause the atria (upper chambers of the heart) to beat too fast.
Causes of Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is typically caused by an issue with the heart’s electrical conduction system. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Heart Conditions
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): Narrowed or blocked arteries can reduce blood flow to the heart and trigger arrhythmias.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure): Puts strain on the heart, increasing the risk of flutter.
- Heart valve disease: Especially issues with the mitral valve.
- Heart failure: Weakened heart muscle can lead to abnormal rhythms.
- Congenital heart defects: Structural issues present from birth may contribute to arrhythmias.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances
- Low levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium can disrupt heart electrical activity.
3. Lung Diseases
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary embolism can increase the risk of atrial flutter.
4. Thyroid Disorders
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can accelerate heart rate and trigger arrhythmias.
5. Substance Use and Medications
- Alcohol and stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, illegal drugs) can trigger arrhythmias.
- Certain medications, including bronchodilators and some psychiatric drugs, may increase risk.
6. Post-Heart Surgery or Ablation
- Atrial flutter can occur as a complication following heart surgery or catheter ablation.
Symptoms of Atrial Flutter
Some people may not experience noticeable symptoms, but common symptoms include: - Rapid or irregular heartbeat - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Fatigue - Chest discomfort
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience severe chest pain, fainting, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Atrial flutter is a serious but manageable condition. If you have risk factors for atrial flutter, it is important to maintain heart health through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Regular check-ups with a cardiologist are advised.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Arrhythmias
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2023-acc-aha-accp-hrs-guideline-for-the-diagnosis-and-management-of-atrial-fibrillation
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiac Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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