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Atrial Flutter

A regular, rapid atrial arrhythmia caused by a macroreentrant circuit, most often in the right atrium.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Atrial Flutter?

Atrial flutter is a regular supraventricular arrhythmia most often caused by a macroreentrant circuit around the cavotricuspid isthmus in the right atrium, with atrial rates typically 240–340 bpm. AV nodal conduction is usually 2:1, producing a ventricular rate near 150 bpm.

It frequently coexists with atrial fibrillation and carries a similar thromboembolic risk. Prolonged flutter can impair atrial function and predispose to heart failure and thromboembolism.

Diagnosis is made from the characteristic sawtooth flutter waves on the ECG. Management includes rate control, rhythm control, anticoagulation and catheter ablation; cavotricuspid isthmus ablation has high success rates.

Symptoms

Regular rapid palpitations
Dyspnea
Chest pressure or pain
Dizziness and fatigue
Syncope
Reduced exercise capacity
Sometimes asymptomatic

Risk Factors

Hypertensive heart disease
Coronary artery disease
Heart failure
COPD
Valvular heart disease
Previous cardiac surgery
Hyperthyroidism

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New-onset rapid palpitations
  • Syncope or presyncope
  • Chest pain and dyspnea
  • Worsening heart failure symptoms
  • Planning for anticoagulant therapy

Treatment Methods

01
Anticoagulation based on CHA2DS2-VASc score
02
Rate control with beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers
03
Electrical or pharmacologic cardioversion
04
Catheter ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus
05
Treatment of the underlying cause
06
Long-term rhythm follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.