MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network

Atrial Flutter: Care Instructions

Right and left atria of heart, with example of EKG reading of atrial flutter

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 into line tracings on paper.

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 the heart's pumping function (heart failure).

Although some people may not have any symptoms, atrial flutter can make you feel light-headed, dizzy, and weak.

Atrial flutter is often the result of another heart condition, such as coronary artery disease or heart valve problems. Making changes to improve your heart health will 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.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. With follow-up care, most people with atrial flutter are able to live full and active lives. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

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.

Lifestyle changes

Do not smoke. 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.
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.
Eat a heart-healthy diet.
Stay at a healthy weight. Lose weight if you need to.
Limit alcohol to 3 drinks a day (maximum 15 per week) for men and 2 drinks a day (maximum 10 per week) for women. Too much alcohol can cause health problems.
Avoid colds and influenza (flu). Get a pneumococcal vaccine shot. If you have had one before, ask your doctor whether you need another dose. Get a flu vaccine every year. If you must be around people with colds or flu, wash your hands often.

Activity

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 right for you. Start light exercise if your doctor says it is okay. Walking is a good choice. Try for at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. You also may want to swim, bike, or do other activities.
When you exercise, watch for signs that you're 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.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

You have symptoms of a stroke. These may include:
- Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
- Sudden vision changes.
- Sudden trouble speaking.
- Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.
- Sudden problems with walking or balance.
- A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.
You passed out (lost consciousness).

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:

You have new or increased shortness of breath.
You feel dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
You have new or worsening heart symptoms. This may include irregular heart rates, skipped heart beats, or a fluttering feeling in your chest.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter L686 in the search box to learn more about "Atrial Flutter: Care Instructions".

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