Atrial flutter is a type of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, that occurs when the atria, or the two upper chambers of the heart, beat too quickly and in an irregular pattern. This can lead to serious health complications such as stroke, heart failure, and blood clots, if left untreated.
The good news is that atrial flutter can sometimes fix itself. This is known as spontaneous conversion, and it occurs when the electrical signals that cause the irregular heartbeat return to normal. However, this is not a common occurrence and usually requires medical intervention to stop the atrial flutter and restore a normal heart rhythm.
For atrial flutter to fix itself, the electrical signals that cause the arrhythmia must return to normal. This can be caused by certain medications or lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine. While these methods can sometimes help, they are not always successful.
In addition, certain medical interventions can help to restore a normal heart rhythm. These include medications such as beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs. Cardioversion, a procedure where a mild electrical shock is applied to the chest, is also sometimes used to reset the heart rhythm.
Although atrial flutter can sometimes fix itself, it is important to seek medical treatment to ensure the best possible outcome. Seeking early treatment can help to reduce the risk of serious complications such as stroke or heart failure. Your doctor can also provide guidance on lifestyle changes and medications that can help to reduce the risk of recurrence.