Is atrial flutter and atrial tachycardia the same?

Atrial flutter is a type of atrial tachycardia that results in an arrhythmia (rhythm disorder or not a normal rhythm) where the atria of the heart beat too quickly in a fast, usually regular, rhythm.

What does paroxysmal atrial tachycardia mean?

Atrial tachycardia is a form of supraventricular tachycardia that occurs when one focus in the atria begins to fire rapidly, overwhelming the sinoatrial node. This results in rapid conduction of action potentials through the atrioventricular node, causing elevated ventricular rates.

What is another name for atrial flutter?

Atrial flutter is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia. It occurs when a short circuit in the heart causes the upper chambers (atria) to pump very rapidly. Atrial flutter is important not only because of its symptoms but because it can cause a stroke that may result in permanent disability or death.

What is paroxysmal atrial flutter?

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation occurs when a rapid, erratic heart rate begins suddenly and then stops on its own within 7 days. It is also known as intermittent A-fib and often lasts for less than 24 hours. The American Heart Association (AHA) estimate that 2.7 million American people live with some form of A-fib.

Is atrial tachycardia considered heart disease?

When it only lasts for short periods, it’s not considered dangerous. However, when you have sustained atrial tachycardia, it can cause a problem called cardiomyopathy, which can weaken and damage your heart. If cardiomyopathy isn’t treated, it can lead to heart failure and death.

How do you identify paroxysmal atrial tachycardia?

Common symptoms include palpitations, dizziness, lightheadedness and passing out. If you feel any of the symptoms for more than a brief period, you should seek medical attention. Tests for atrial tachycardia include an EKG which shows the rhythm of the heart.

How is paroxysmal AF treated?

Heart rate control: The most common way to treat atrial fibrillation is with drugs that control your heartbeat. Most people take a medication called digoxin (Lanoxin)….Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart’s ability to conduct electricity:

1. Flecainide (Tambocor)
2. Propafenone (Rythmol)
3. Quinidine.

What triggers paroxysmal atrial fibrillation?

Paroxysmal A-fib occurs when there are abnormal electric pathways in the heart and the heart is not beating regularly or pumping enough oxygen-rich blood around the body. Share on Pinterest Paroxysmal A-fib may be caused by lifestyle choices such as illegal drugs, smoking, alcohol, obesity, and excessive exercise.

How do you treat paroxysmal atrial tachycardia?

Treatment for atrial tachycardia includes medications to slow the heart rate down or adjust the heart rhythm. Another method is cardioversion which shocks the heart back into a normal rhythm.