Yes, atrial flutter is a type of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). SVT is a group of heart rhythm disorders that involve the heart's electrical system and cause the heart to beat too quickly. Atrial flutter is a type of SVT that involves a rapid, regular, and usually uniform pattern of atrial (upper chamber) contractions. It is caused by an abnormal electrical circuit in the atria. This causes the atrial rate to range from 250-350 beats per minute, where a normal heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute.
The most common symptom of atrial flutter is palpitations. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, chest pain, fatigue, and feeling faint. Diagnosis is done with an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the electrical activity of the heart. Treatment for atrial flutter is usually done with medication, cardioversion, or ablation. Medication can help slow the heart rate and restore a normal rhythm. Cardioversion is a procedure that uses electrical shock to reset the heart's rhythm. Ablation is a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy the abnormal electrical circuit in the atria.
Atrial flutter is a serious condition and can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms of atrial flutter.