Understanding Atrial Flutter

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, 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. 

What Is Atrial Flutter?

Atrial Flutter, or AFL, is the abnormal rhythm of the heart’s upper chambers (atria). 

A common but critical condition, AFL, causes the atria to beat too quickly. This can lead to more rapid contractions in the lower chambers and increase the speed of the heartbeats.

Causes and Symptoms of Atrial Flutter

While there is no single cause of atrial flutter, it can be the symptom of a disease or other issues already present in the heart or other parts of the body.

Some of the most common causes of AFL include

• Ischemia (low blood flow to the heart)
• Hypertension (low blood pressure)
• Pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in a blood vessel of the lung)
• Abnormal heart valves
• Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle)

Atrial flutter is often characterized by symptoms such as

• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Palpitations (a racing heart)

Not all people with atrial flutter experience symptoms. However, even with no symptoms, the condition can lead to stroke, heart failure, or further complications if left untreated.

Atrial Flutter Treatment

Atrial flutter is a form of arrhythmia, so its diagnosis and treatment are similar to other types of irregular heart function. 

Before atrial flutter treatment determination, one of our experienced doctors will perform an electrocardiogram, or EKG, to record your heartbeat and identify the specific type of arrhythmia you may have, determine your risk, and create a suitable treatment plan.

AFL treatment plans are generally designed to

1. Control the heart rate
2. Restore a normal heart rate
3. Prevent future episodes
4. Prevent stroke

This can often be accomplished through medication but may require cardioversion (electric shock) in more severe cases.

Our specialized team at CardioVascular Health Clinic is committed to diagnosing, treating, and preventing vascular and cardiovascular conditions. We use only the latest technology and methods to deliver personalized, high-quality care to our patients.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms of atrial flutter, or are concerned about your risk, call CardioVascular Health Clinic today at (405) 701-9880 to schedule an appointment or schedule an appointment online.