Atrial flutter is an abnormal heart rhythm characterized by a very rapid heartbeat, usually between 250 and 350 beats per minute. It is caused by a disturbance in the normal electrical signal that controls the heart rate. Atrial flutter is usually seen in people with underlying heart disease, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or heart valve disease. It can also be caused by certain medications, alcohol, or stimulants.
Diagnosis of Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter can be diagnosed with an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect irregularities in the heart rate. The ECG will show a regular but very fast heart rate. Other tests that can be used to diagnose atrial flutter include echocardiography and stress tests.
Treatment of Atrial Flutter
The treatment of atrial flutter depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, the flutter may resolve on its own without any treatment. However, medications such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmics may be prescribed to slow down the heart rate. In some cases, an ablation procedure may be recommended to destroy the abnormal electrical pathways in the heart.
Complications of Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter can lead to several serious complications, such as stroke, congestive heart failure, and blood clots. People with atrial flutter are also at an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, an irregular and rapid heart rhythm that can be dangerous.