Atrial Flutter
Also known as: Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) or Atrial Tachycardia.
Atrial Flutter is a type of abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) characterised by rapid and regular electrical impulses originating in the heart's upper chambers (atria). In atrial flutter, the atria contract at a fast and regular rate, often producing a characteristic sawtooth pattern on electrocardiogram (ECG) tracings. Atrial flutter may be associated with symptoms and complications similar to atrial fibrillation (AF) and can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.
What are the symptoms of Atrial Flutter?
Symptoms of atrial flutter may include:
Palpitations (awareness of rapid or irregular heartbeat).
Fatigue or weakness.
Shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion or lying flat.
Chest discomfort or pain.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Fainting (syncope) or near-fainting episodes.
Reduced exercise tolerance.
Anxiety or feelings of impending doom.
How is Atrial Flutter diagnosed?
Diagnosing atrial flutter involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of atrial flutter and assess for underlying causes and associated complications. Diagnostic assessments may include:
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG):
This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify characteristic patterns indicative of atrial flutter, including a sawtooth pattern in the atrial electrical activity.
Holter Monitor or Event Monitor:
These portable devices record heart rhythm continuously or intermittently over a period to capture any transient or intermittent episodes of atrial flutter.
Echocardiogram:
This ultrasound test evaluates the structure and function of the heart, assessing for structural abnormalities or underlying heart disease that may predispose to atrial flutter.
Blood Tests:
To assess for underlying medical conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances that may contribute to atrial flutter.
How is Atrial Flutter treated?
Treatment for atrial flutter aims to control symptoms, restore normal heart rhythm, and reduce the risk of complications such as stroke or heart failure. Treatment options may include:
Lifestyle changes:
Such as managing underlying risk factors (such as high blood pressure, obesity, or sleep apnea), reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and adopting a heart-healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Medications:
Including antiarrhythmic drugs to restore and maintain normal heart rhythm, anticoagulant medications to reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke, and rate-controlling medications to control heart rate.
Cardioversion
Procedures such as electrical cardioversion or pharmacological cardioversion may be used to restore normal heart rhythm in cases of persistent or longstanding atrial flutter.
Catheter Ablation:
This minimally invasive procedure uses radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy to destroy abnormal heart tissue responsible for triggering atrial flutter.
Early diagnosis and appropriate management of atrial flutter are crucial for reducing the risk of complications and improving outcomes in affected individuals. Individuals with symptoms suggestive of atrial flutter should seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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