Atrial flutter is an irregularity in the heart rhythm which leads to rapid and oftentimes erratic heartbeat.
An issue of concern is that the heart does not adequately pump blood while beating rapidly. Once blood is not pumped sufficiently, the vital organs could not get enough oxygen from the blood.
What are the indications?
In general, some individuals with atrial flutter do not have any symptoms. Furthermore, some who have symptoms include:
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Fluttering sensation in the chest
- Weakness
Those who have underlying lung or heart disease with atrial flutter might experience chest pain. - Anxiety
In addition, those who have underlying lung or heart disease with atrial flutter might experience these symptoms:
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Feeling faint or lightheadedness
What are the usual causes of atrial flutter?
Generally, atrial flutter can be brought about by irregularities in the heart, heart disease or ailments in other parts of the body that involves the heart.
Furthermore, the condition can also be triggered by consumption of substances that alter the way the electrical impulses are conveyed via the heart. Atrial flutter might also occur after undergoing open heart surgery.
Some of the heart conditions or irregularities that can trigger atrial flutter include:
- High blood pressure
- Reduced blood flow to the heart due to atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease or heart attack
- Abnormalities in the heart valves, particularly the mitral valve
- Ailments of the heart muscle, usually linked with congestive heart failure
- Hypertrophy or enlargement of the heart
The substances that can add up to the condition include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Stimulants such as amphetamines, cocaine and caffeine
FACT CHECK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_flutter
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/atrial-flutter#1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-flutter/symptoms-causes/syc-20352586