Atrial flutter

Atrial flutter is a heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia) in which the heart beats too fast. It is similar to atrial fibrillation. The difference between atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation is that atrial flutter is steady, while atrial fibrillation is irregular.

Risk factors for atrial flutter

Doctors don’t always know what causes atrial flutter, but certain factors make you more likely to develop it. Your risk increases with age, because of electrical and structural changes that occur in the heart over time. Men are slightly more likely than women to develop atrial flutter. Your risk also can be affected by excessive use of alcohol, cigarettes or stimulant drugs (including caffeine).

Often, atrial flutter is associated with other conditions, including:

• a history of coronary heart disease, heart attack or heart failure 
• heart valve disease, an inflamed heart muscle or lining or recent heart surgery
• atherosclerosis and angina
• chronic lung disease, pulmonary blood clots, emphysema and asthma
• thyroid disorders, diabetes or high blood pressure

Symptoms of atrial flutter

Some people with atrial fibrillation have no symptoms. Others experience one or more of the following:

• a racing, uncomfortable, irregular heartbeat
• lightheadedness
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• a “fluttering” feeling in the chest
• a fast pulse
• a feeling of overall weakness

Treating atrial flutter

Catheter ablation is the most successful treatment for atrial flutter, especially right atrial flutter. Medications may help restore a regular heart rhythm.

Prevention

The best way to prevent atrial flutter is by managing your risk factors or related conditions.  Atrial flutter increases your risk of stroke and heart failure.