Atrial flutter is an abnormal type of cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) in which the atria of the heart beat too quickly. It is classified as a type of supraventricular tachycardia, or SVT, and is generally considered to be an unstable arrhythmia.
Atrial flutter typically causes a rapid heart rate of around 150 to 250 beats per minute, which can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fatigue. It can also lead to palpitations and fainting. In some cases, it can cause blood clots to form in the heart, leading to stroke or other serious complications.
Atrial flutter is usually caused by an electrical circuit abnormality in the atria of the heart, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, medications, and alcohol or drug abuse. Treatment may involve medications to slow the heart rate, or an electrical procedure called cardioversion to restore the heart to a normal rhythm. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the arrhythmia.
In conclusion, atrial flutter is an unstable type of tachycardia and can have serious health implications. Treatment is typically necessary to restore the heart to a normal rhythm, and may involve medications, electrical procedures, or surgery.