What is Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is a type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia) that occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat too quickly. This can disrupt the normal flow of blood, leading to symptoms like dizziness, chest discomfort and fatigue.
Atrial flutter is the second most common type of heart rhythm disorder. Atrial fibrillation is the most common, and while the two conditions are similar, they have different patterns of electrical activity in your heart.
Atrial flutter vs. atrial fibrillation
Atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation (AFib) are both types of arrhythmias. Atrial flutter creates a fast but more regular rhythm, but AFib causes a fast, irregular heartbeat.
The conditions also affect the heart’s electrical system differently. In AFib, the electrical signals are chaotic, leading to an uneven rhythm. With atrial flutter, the signals follow a looping path, creating an often fast but usually steady heartbeat. Both conditions can increase the risk of stroke and need medical attention.
Types of atrial flutter
Atrial flutter can be classified into two main types: typical and atypical. These classifications are based on the location and pattern of the electrical impulses causing the abnormal heart rhythm.
Typical atrial flutter is the most common form and develops when abnormal electrical signals originate in the right atrium of the heart. These signals form a circular pathway around the tricuspid valve, causing the atria to beat rapidly but in a regular pattern. This type of atrial flutter can often be treated easily with a procedure called cardiac ablation.
Atypical atrial flutter occurs when the electrical signals arise in the left or right atrium. Unlike the circular pattern found in typical atrial flutter, atypical flutter causes irregular patterns.
Atrial flutter symptoms
Atrial flutter can cause a range of symptoms, from barely noticeable to more disruptive. Some people feel fine, while others may experience sensations that interfere with daily life. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice any of these changes in how your heart feels or how you’re feeling overall.
Symptoms of atrial flutter include:
- Chest discomfort
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness
- Palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeat)
- Shortness of breath
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you have symptoms of atrial flutter. Left untreated, the condition can lead to serious complications, including stroke or heart failure, but treatments can help reduce the risk of these complications.
Some symptoms of atrial flutter could suggest a medical emergency. Call 911 if you experience chest pain or discomfort along with dizziness, shortness of breath, or back, neck, arm or jaw pain, as these could be signs of a heart attack.
Atrial flutter causes
Atrial flutter develops when the heart’s electrical signals become disrupted, which causes the atria to beat too fast. Doctors don’t always know why this disruption occurs, but in many cases, it’s caused by damage related to an underlying medical condition. Typical flutter can occur even when you have no underlying cardiovascular illnesses.
Health conditions that cause atrial flutter include:
- Alcohol use disorder
- Cardiomyopathy
- Congenital heart disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart valve disease
- High blood pressure
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Myocarditis
Locations for atrial flutter
Find comprehensive care for atrial flutter and other forms of arrhythmia from our heart teams in North and Central Texas. We can help you find care at a location that fits your needs.
