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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.
Heart Flutter Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Introduction
Heart flutter, also known as atrial flutter, is a type of heart arrhythmia where the atria (upper chambers of the heart) beat very fast, leading to poor blood flow. Understanding its symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Common Symptoms
The symptoms of heart flutter can vary, but the most common ones include:
- Palpitations – A rapid or irregular heartbeat that feels like fluttering in the chest.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness – Due to insufficient blood circulation.
- Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired even after minimal activity.
- Chest discomfort – A sensation of pressure or pain in the chest.
- Fainting (syncope) – In some cases, a sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to fainting.
Why Do These Symptoms Occur?
Atrial flutter occurs when the electrical signals in your heart’s upper chambers do not properly function, causing a rapid heartbeat. This can reduce your heart's efficiency and affect oxygen delivery to the body.
Who Is at Risk?
Factors that increase the risk of atrial flutter include: - High blood pressure - Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders) - History of heart surgery - Chronic lung disease - Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) - Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience persistent palpitations, chest pain, or dizziness. A doctor may perform tests like ECG (electrocardiogram), Holter monitoring, or echocardiography to diagnose the condition.
Conclusion
Atrial flutter is a serious but manageable condition. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent complications like stroke. If you suspect you have symptoms of heart flutter, consult a cardiologist promptly.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on 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/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://www.escardio.org/Journals/E-Journal-of-Cardiology-Practice/Volume-6/Atrial-flutter-RF-differential-diagnosis-management-strategies-Title-Atria
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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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