-
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 is Heart Flutter?
Introduction
Heart flutter, also known as atrial flutter, is a type of abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia). It occurs when the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) beat too quickly, leading to inefficient blood flow. While similar to atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter usually has a more regular and organized electrical pattern.
Causes of Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is primarily caused by abnormal electrical circuits in the atria. Some common risk factors include: - Heart diseases: Coronary artery disease, heart failure, or valve disorders. - High blood pressure (hypertension). - Chronic lung disease. - Thyroid disorders (especially hyperthyroidism). - Alcohol abuse and stimulant use. - Post-heart surgery complications.
Symptoms of Atrial Flutter
Symptoms may vary but often include: - Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) - Palpitations (feeling the heart racing or fluttering) - Shortness of breath - Fatigue - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Chest discomfort
Diagnosis of Atrial Flutter
Doctors diagnose atrial flutter using: - Electrocardiogram (ECG): A key test to identify irregular rhythms. - Holter monitor: A wearable device that continuously records heart activity. - Electrophysiology study: A test that maps the heart’s electrical circuits.
Treatment of Atrial Flutter
Treatment options depend on severity and underlying causes and may include: 1. Medications: - Antiarrhythmic drugs to control heart rhythm (e.g., amiodarone, flecainide). - Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to slow heart rate. - Blood thinners (anticoagulants) to prevent stroke (e.g., warfarin, DOACs). 2. Cardioversion: Electrical shock therapy to restore normal rhythm. 3. Ablation therapy: A catheter procedure that targets and destroys abnormal heart pathways. 4. Lifestyle changes: Weight management, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and regular physical activity.
Conclusion
Atrial flutter is a serious but manageable condition. Early treatment reduces the risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure. If you experience persistent palpitations or irregular heartbeat, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Atrial Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
- 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/treatment-and-prevention-of-atrial-fibrillation/treatment-options-of-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Supraventricular Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14557344/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
-
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!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.