Atrial flutter

Heart rhythm disorder, or arrhythmia, that occurs at normal or increased rates. The upper chambers of the heart (atria) produce a very accelerated heartbeat which is transmitted to the lower chambers (ventricles) at a lower frequency. Depending on the cadence between the atrial and ventricular beats, the patient's pulse will be faster or slower.

It is common in patients with previous heart disease: valvular changes, previous heart attacks, heart surgery and other cardiopulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Its manifestations are directly related to the heart rate; usually there are more symptoms with a more accelerated pulse. The most common symptoms are palpitations, dizziness, anxiety, chest pain, shortness of breath and a sense of impending doom.

The diagnosis is clinical, suspected by interview and physical examination, and confirmed by an electrocardiogram. If the arrhythmia is intermittent, it may be necessary to apply a continuous electrocardiographic monitor (Holter).

The aim of treatment is to restore sinus rhythm, the normal heart rhythm; if this is not possible, the tachycardia must be stopped until it is possible to keep it below 100 beats per minute.