Atrial flutter is an abnormal heart rhythm that can damage the heart if left untreated. It occurs when electrical signals in the atria of the heart become disorganized and cause the heart to beat too fast. This can cause the atria to quiver, or flutter, instead of beating in a normal, coordinated fashion. The result is a rapid, sometimes irregular heartbeat, which can be felt as a "fluttering" sensation in the chest.
Untreated atrial flutter can lead to serious heart problems. Because the atria are not beating effectively, blood may not be pumped out of the heart efficiently and can accumulate in the atria. This can lead to an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and other heart complications. Atrial flutter can also cause an irregular and fast heartbeat, which can put extra strain on the heart and cause it to become enlarged or weaken over time.
Atrial flutter can be treated with medication, medical procedures, or a combination of both. Common medications used to treat atrial flutter include beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs. These drugs help to slow down the heart rate and restore a normal rhythm. Medical procedures such as radiofrequency ablation and cardioversion can also be used to restore a normal heart rhythm. With treatment, atrial flutter can be managed and the risk of further heart damage can be reduced.