Atrial fibrillation (AF)¹ and atrial flutter (AFL) are two common types of abnormal heart rhythms that can cause significant health issues if left untreated. While they may sound similar, there are distinct differences between the two conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics, causes, and potential complications of AF and AFL.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. Instead of contracting normally, the atria quiver, causing an irregular heartbeat. This irregularity can lead to poor blood flow, increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart failure.
What is Atrial Flutter?
Atrial flutter, on the other hand, is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by a rapid but regular heartbeat. It occurs when a single electrical circuit in the atria begins to fire rapidly, causing the atria to contract at a fast rate. While the heartbeat is regular, it is usually faster than normal, which can also lead to poor blood flow and an increased risk of blood clots and stroke.
What are the Causes?
The causes of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter can vary. In many cases, they are associated with underlying heart conditions, such as high blood pressure², coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, or congenital heart defects. Other factors that can contribute to these conditions include excessive alcohol consumption, thyroid disorders, lung diseases, and stimulant use.
What are the Symptoms?
Both atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter can cause similar symptoms, including palpitations (a rapid or irregular heartbeat), shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and chest discomfort. However, some individuals may not experience any symptoms, making it crucial to undergo regular check-ups and screenings to detect these conditions.
What are the Complications?
If left untreated, both atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter can lead to serious complications. The irregular heartbeat associated with AF and AFL can cause blood clots to form in the atria. If a blood clot travels to the brain, it can result in a stroke. Additionally, these conditions can weaken the heart over time, increasing the risk of heart failure.
How are they Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosing atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter typically involves an electrocardiogram³ (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity. Additional tests, such as echocardiograms or stress tests, may be performed to evaluate the heart's structure and function. Treatment options may include medications to control heart rate and rhythm, blood thinners⁴ to reduce the risk of blood clots, and procedures like cardioversion or catheter ablation to restore normal heart rhythm.
Conclusion
While atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter share some similarities, they have distinct characteristics and potential complications. Understanding the differences between these two conditions is essential for early detection, proper diagnosis, and effective treatment. If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your heart health, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
References:
1. What is Atrial Fibration? | Cardiac X
2. The Facts about Hypertension | Cardiac X