What is Atrial Flutter?
The heart is comprised of four chambers: two upper chambers (atria) and two lower chambers (ventricles). Electrical signals regulate the heart beat, and help the atria and ventricles work together in the same rhythm. The blood from the atria is pushed into the ventricles, and then leaves the heart to circulate to the rest of the body.
Atrial flutter is a type of abnormal fast beating ( arrhythmia ) in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. These fast beats prevent the atria from pushing all the blood into the ventricles. As a result, the ventricles push less blood into the body.
Atrial flutter may be an acute or chronic recurring disorder. When treated, atrial flutter is not usually life-threatening. However, it may increase your risk of developing blood clots and stroke .
This condition can be treated. Contact your doctor if you think you may have atrial flutter.