Atrial flutter

Need to know

• Symptoms of atrial flutter icon plus

  Atrial flutter might present itself in several ways. These include:

  • palpitations
  • the feeling that your heart is racing
  • being short of breath
  • feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • fainting - fatigue
  • heart failure

  Atrial flutter can itself be associated with various underlying conditions, such as structural heart disease or cardiomyopathy. Factors such as stress, excessive alcohol and lung disease may also contribute. Often, people with atrial flutter also experience atrial fibrillation, when the atria becomes electrically chaotic. This renders the heart's natural rhythm irregular.

• Diagnosis icon plus

  We have a number of outpatient tests available that can help diagnose atrial flutter. Your GP or consultant will talk you though any symptoms you may have. They will recommend some or all of the following tests:

  • electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • 24-hour electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • echocardiogram (an ultrasound scan of the heart)

  Your consultant will also talk to you about any test results and the next steps for further investigation or treatment if necessary.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Our experienced consultant cardiologists and electrophysiologists can advise you on the next steps depending on the outcome of your tests. Once atrial flutter is diagnosed, catheter ablation is usually recommended. Electrical DC cardioversion, when a controlled shock helps restore a regular heartbeat, is an alternative.