The familiar lub-dub rhythm of your heart is very organized. It's controlled by a built-in electrical system. But some things can cause that electrical system to go haywire. And that can cause a condition called atrial flutter.
Author: Metzger, Geri K
Online Medical Reviewer: Cunningham, Louise, RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Turley, Raymond Kent, BSN, MSN, RN
Atrial flutter means that your heart is beating very fast. It is caused by a problem in the electrical pathways of the heart. It can be a sign of heart disease or other health problems.
Atrial flutter is a type of arrhythmia. It causes the heart to beat faster than normal. Atrial flutter can increase the risk for certain serious problems, such as stroke.
Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the heart beats in an irregular pattern. It is caused by a problem in the heart's electrical pathways. It can be a sign of heart disease or other health problems that affect the heart.
Living with Atrial Fibrillation: Preventing Stroke
Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm in the world. It causes the atria to quiver instead of pumping normally. This can cause blood clots and lead to stroke.
