Recognizing the Signs of Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter, although it may not always exhibit noticeable symptoms, can still have a negative impact on the heart’s functionality. The signs to watch out for include chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting episodes, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. These symptoms can occur in various situations, but they tend to worsen under stress.
Complications Associated with Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter, although initially not life-threatening, can lead to various complications. The rapid heart rate associated with atrial flutter impairs the heart’s ability to effectively pump blood to the rest of the body. Consequently, there is an increased risk of blood clot formation within the heart. Should a blood clot dislodge and travel to the brain, it can result in a stroke.
Over time, atrial flutter can weaken the heart muscle, potentially contributing to heart failure. Furthermore, if left untreated, atrial flutter may progress and develop into atrial fibrillation.