Atrial flutter is a type of heart rhythm disorder that occurs when the electrical impulses in the atria of the heart beat rapidly and regularly in a circular pattern. This rapid and regular electrical activity causes the atria to contract rapidly and irregularly, which can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath and lightheadedness.
Characteristics
On an electrocardiogram (ECG), atrial flutter appears as a regular and rapid series of P waves, with a frequency of around 250 to 350 beats per minute. The P waves in atrial flutter have a sawtooth or flutter-like appearance, with a relatively constant and regular pattern.
The ventricular response to the rapid atrial activity in atrial flutter can vary and can appear as regular, irregular, or intermediate. If the ventricular response is regular, the ECG will show a narrow QRS complex with a regular rhythm. If the ventricular response is irregular, the ECG will show a wide QRS complex with an irregular rhythm. If the ventricular response is intermediate, the ECG will show a combination of regular and irregular QRS complexes.
It is important to note that ECG findings can vary depending on the type and severity of the atrial flutter, as well as individual patient factors
Furthermore atrial flutter may be characterised by the following:
- Rapid and regular electrical impulses: The electrical impulses in the atria of the heart beat rapidly and regularly in a circular pattern.
- Irregular contraction of atria: This rapid and regular electrical activity causes the atria to contract rapidly and irregularly.
- Palpitations: The rapid and irregular heartbeat can cause palpitations, a sensation of fluttering or racing in the chest.
- Shortness of breath: Atrial flutter can cause shortness of breath and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
- Lightheadedness: The irregular heartbeat can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and even fainting.
- Increased risk of blood clots: Atrial flutter can increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to stroke or other serious complications.
Symptoms
Atrial flutter is a type of heart rhythm disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Palpitations: A sensation of fluttering or racing in the chest.
- Shortness of breath: A feeling of tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing.
- Chest discomfort: Chest pain or pressure.
- Lightheadedness: Dizziness, unsteadiness, or even fainting.
- Fatigue: A feeling of exhaustion or weakness.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat: A pulse that feels rapid, fluttering, or irregular.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of atrial flutter is characterised by rapid and regular electrical impulses in the atria of the heart, causing the atria to contract rapidly and irregularly. This abnormal electrical activity is caused by a re-entry circuit, which is a loop of electrical impulses that repeatedly circulate within the atria.
In atrial flutter, the electrical impulses follow a circular pattern, causing the atria to contract rapidly and irregularly. This rapid and irregular contraction of the atria leads to a rapid and irregular heartbeat, which can cause symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.
Atrial flutter can also increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to stroke or other serious complications. This is because the rapid and irregular contraction of the atria can cause blood to pool in the atria, increasing the risk of blood clots forming.
Atrial flutter is often treated with medications to slow the heart rate or restore normal heart rhythm, as well as procedures such as cardioversion, ablation, and anticoagulation therapy to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of complications.