Atrial flutter is an abnormal heart rhythm that occurs when the electrical signals that cause the heart to beat become rapid and chaotic. This causes the atria, or the top chambers of the heart, to beat too quickly and become out of sync with the bottom chambers. As a result, the heart cannot pump blood as efficiently as it should.
What Causes Atrial Flutter?
Atrial flutter is usually caused by a problem with the electrical system of the heart, such as a damaged heart valve, high blood pressure, or an overactive thyroid gland. It can also be caused by certain medications or diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Atrial Flutter?
Atrial flutter can cause a number of symptoms, including palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and lightheadedness. It can also cause chest pain and an irregular heart rate.
Why Does Atrial Flutter Cause Clots?
When the heart is not pumping blood efficiently, it can cause blood to pool in the lower chambers of the heart. This can cause blood clots to form, which can then travel to other parts of the body and cause a stroke or other serious complications. Atrial flutter can also cause a decrease in the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the rest of the body, which can also increase the risk of clot formation.