Atrial Flutter

What is atrial flutter?

Atrial flutter is a specific type of arrhythmia — also referred to as an irregular heartbeat — that occurs in your atria, the upper chambers of your heart. Atrial flutter usually begins as a rapid heart rate of 100-200 beats per minute, which is clinically referred to as tachycardia. Atrial flutter can be persistent or paroxysmal, which means it comes and goes. Paroxysmal atrial flutter episodes can last hours or days.

You may not notice any symptoms of atrial flutter, and the condition is rarely life-threatening when treated by a cardiovascular specialist. However, if your heart rate is very rapid, you may have palpitations or notice that you feel short of breath or dizzy.

What causes atrial flutter?

Many factors contribute to atrial flutter. As with other types of arrhythmia, your atrial flutter could be due to heart disease or a structural problem in your atria. For example, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, and abnormal valves and chambers can trigger atrial flutter.

You may also have a condition elsewhere in your body, such as hyperthyroidism or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

How is atrial flutter diagnosed?

The team at Coastal Heart Medical Group diagnoses an atrial flutter and its cause with a physical exam and diagnostic tests, including electrocardiograms. If you’re concerned about your heart health or have noticed symptoms, such as palpitations or being short of breath or dizzy, make an appointment at Coastal Heart Medical Group today.

The team of cardiovascular experts listens to your heart and lungs and performs a thorough physical assessment to look for other signs of the condition that’s causing your symptoms. They may also use an electrocardiogram to monitor the electrical activity in your heart. In addition to an in-office test, your doctor may fit you with a Holter monitor to collect information about your heart activity for a day or two.

How is atrial flutter treated?

Coastal Heart Medical Group provides customized treatments to regulate your heartbeat. Your doctor may prescribe medication to control your heart rate. They may also recommend a minimally invasive ablation treatment to treat the area of your heart causing the flutter.

If you have questions or concerns about atrial flutter, call Coastal Heart Medical Group or schedule a consultation online today.