What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment depends on the cause of the atrial flutter. In some individuals, the main goal of treatment is to control the heart rate. This is especially true for those who have congestive heart failure, chest pain, or hyperthyroidism.

Medicines used to treat atrial flutter include:

Episodes of atrial flutter can be stopped by delivering a small electrical shock to the heart, a procedure known as a cardioversion. This shock can be delivered by a pacemaker or through the skin with a defibrillator set to a lower power.

Future episodes of atrial flutter can be prevented by destroying the short circuit in the atrium. This can be done by surgery or with sound waves.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Medicines used to treat atrial flutter can cause a slow heart rate or low blood pressure. Some of the medicines used to control atrial flutter can cause arrhythmias or allergic reactions. Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.

How is the condition monitored?

Atrial flutter is monitored by regular visits to the healthcare provider. The provider may order regular EKGs and blood tests. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.