What is it?
Atrial flutter is type of rhythmic heart condition (arrhythmia), that is characterized by a rapid heart beat but with a regular pattern.
What are the symptoms?
Atrial flutter manifests as a fast heartbeat or palpitations with a regular pattern. Some patients may also experience the following:
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Trouble in everyday activities or poor tolerance to exercise.
- Chest pain or heaviness.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with atrial flutter, you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor:
- Was there a specific cause found?
- Is there a need for investigations to assess and evaluate your condition? If so, what preparations do you need prior to testing?
- Some patients with atrial flutter may have other medical conditions such as such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Do you need a stricter control of these medical conditions?
- Patients with atrial flutter are prescribed medication they will need to use lifelong. Is this the case for you as well?
- A healthy diet, quitting smoking and an active lifestyle can help improve overall health and well-being. Which changes can you make in your lifestyle?
- Patients with atrial flutter have a regular follow-up with their doctor. How often do you need to visit your doctor?
After initial treatment, you can also do the following:
- Control your body weight.
- Get regular exercise, such as walking, running, biking, and swimming.
- Eat a well-balanced diet and limit your intake of sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
- Drink lots of water.