Question: Is atrial flutter the same as AFib?
No, atrial flutter and AFib are two distinct medical conditions. Atrial flutter (AFL) is an abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that occurs when the atria of the heart beat too quickly. It is caused by a rapid electrical circuit that causes the atria to beat at an abnormally fast rate of approximately 300 beats per minute. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, fainting, and shortness of breath.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib), on the other hand, is an irregular heart rhythm caused by an irregular electrical signal in the atria. This causes the heart to beat with an irregular rate, often at a rate of 100-175 beats per minute. AFib is sometimes caused by certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, but it can also be caused by underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism. Symptoms of AFib can include palpitations, chest pain, fainting, and shortness of breath.
Although both atrial flutter and AFib can cause similar symptoms, they are not the same. AFL is caused by a rapid electrical circuit in the atria, while AFib is caused by an abnormal electrical signal in the atria. Additionally, the rate at which the heart beats differs greatly between the two conditions. With AFL, the heart beats at an abnormally fast rate of approximately 300 beats per minute, while with AFib, the heart rate is usually 100-175 beats per minute.
It is important to note that both conditions can be serious, and can lead to further complications if left untreated. Therefore, if you experience any of the symptoms associated with either atrial flutter or AFib, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and provide treatment to control the heart rhythm and prevent any further complications.