Overview

Atrial flutter is a type of heartbeat problem (arrhythmia) that usually causes a fast heart rate. In atrial flutter, a problem with the heart's electrical system causes the two upper parts of the heart (the right atrium and the left atrium) to flutter, or beat very fast. Atrial flutter might be diagnosed using an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). An ECG translates the heart's electrical activity.

Treating atrial flutter is important to prevent stroke, heart failure, and reduce symptoms you may be having. The change in heartbeat can cause blood clots. The clots can travel from your heart to your brain and cause a stroke. Over time, atrial flutter can also lead to weakening of the heart's pumping function (heart failure).

Atrial flutter is often the result of another heart condition, such as coronary artery disease or heart valve problems. A heart-healthy lifestyle can help you stay healthy and active.

Your doctor may prescribe medicines to help relieve your symptoms, help slow down your heartbeat, or help lower the amount of atrial flutter you have. You may also take medicine to help prevent a stroke. For some people, procedures to stop atrial flutter, electrical cardioversion or catheter ablation, may be recommended.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines.
  • Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
  • If your doctor has given you a blood thinner to prevent a stroke, be sure you get instructions about how to take your medicine safely. Blood thinners can cause serious bleeding problems.
  • Do not take any over-the-counter drugs or natural health products without talking to your doctor first.
• Have a heart-healthy lifestyle.
  • Try to quit or cut back on using tobacco and other nicotine products. This includes smoking and vaping. Smoking can increase your chance of a stroke and heart attack. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good. Try to avoid second-hand smoke too.
  • Eat heart-healthy foods. These include vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, lean meat, fish, and whole grains. Limit sodium and sugar.
  • If you drink, try to drink less. Your risk of harm from alcohol is low if you have 2 drinks or less per week. Work with your doctor to find what is best for you.
  • Stay at a weight that's healthy for you. Talk to your doctor if you need help losing weight.
  • Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
  • Manage other health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol or drug use, talk to your doctor.
  • Avoid infections such as COVID-19, colds, and influenza (flu). Get the flu vaccine every year. Get a pneumococcal vaccine shot. If you have had one before, ask your doctor whether you need another dose. Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines.
• Be active, but be safe.
  • Routine exercise is safe and helps you maintain and improve your heart health. Before you start an exercise routine, talk to your doctor about what type and level of exercise is safe for you. Try to be physically active for 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. For many people, walking is a good choice. You also may want to swim, bike, or do other activities.
  • When you exercise, watch for signs that you are exercising too hard. You are pushing too hard if you can't talk while you exercise. If you become short of breath or dizzy or have chest pain, sit down and rest right away.
• Talk with your healthcare provider about feelings such as worry, anxiety, or depression related to your heart condition. These feelings are normal and getting help is an important part of your overall health.