Atrial Flutter

At Upperhill CardioVascular Center, your heart and vascular health matter to us.Our expert team is committed to providing personalized vascular and cardiovascular care for the full spectrum of heart and venous-related conditions, including atrial flutters. We pride ourselves on delivering detailed treatment plans for each patient’s unique health and lifestyle.

If you or a loved one is experiencing new or worsening atrial flutter symptoms, is curious about the effects of atrial flutters on overall health, or is simply interested in exploring atrial flutter treatment options that meet your needs, we can help.

Let’s discuss atrial flutters in more detail, including their potential symptoms, and the treatment options available to those with this condition. 

Atrial flutter is a type of supraventricular arrhythmia characterized by rapid, organized electrical activity in the atria, leading to a distinct “sawtooth” pattern on an electrocardiogram (ECG), often referred to as “f-waves” or “flutter waves.” This condition typically involves the right atrium, although it can occasionally affect the left atrium as well. Atrial flutter is known for its regular and rapid heartbeats, which can range from 240 to 340 beats per minute.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• • Heart Conditions: Commonly associated with structural heart disease, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and valvular heart disease.
  • Other Conditions: Can be triggered or exacerbated by high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, hyperthyroidism, and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Post-Surgical: Often seen after heart surgery, such as valve replacement or repair.

Symptoms:

• • Symptoms may include palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and occasionally chest pain. Some individuals may be asymptomatic and discover the condition during routine examinations.

Comprehensive treatment of atrial flutter involves a multi-dimensional approach to control symptoms, prevent complications, and address underlying causes. Initial management includes anticoagulant therapy to reduce stroke risk, typically using direct oral anticoagulants or warfarin, and rate control through medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. Rhythm control is achieved with antiarrhythmic drugs or electrical cardioversion, which uses electrical shocks to restore normal heart rhythm. For patients with persistent or recurrent atrial flutter, catheter ablation may be performed to target and eliminate the abnormal electrical pathways causing the arrhythmia. Lifestyle modifications, such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of triggers like excessive alcohol or caffeine, are also essential. Ongoing monitoring with a cardiologist ensures effective management, with regular follow-ups to adjust treatment and manage any potential complications.