What does AFL mean in PHYSIOLOGY
Atrial flutter (AFL) is a serious condition that affects the heart's electrical system. It is characterized by rapid and irregular contractions of the atria, causing an unusual heart rate that is usually more than 150 beats per minute. AFL can lead to a variety of symptoms, including chest pain, lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting. Atrial flutter also increases the risk for certain problems such as stroke and pulmonary edema. If left untreated, atrial flutter can be life-threatening.
AFL meaning in Physiology in Medical
AFL mostly used in an acronym Physiology in Category Medical that means atrial flutter
Shorthand: AFL,
Full Form: atrial flutter
For more information of "atrial flutter", see the section below.
» Medical » Physiology
What Causes Atrial Flutter?
Atrial flutter occurs when there is an abnormal conduction of electrical signals in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. This causes an abnormally fast heartbeat which leads to irregular contractions of the atria. Many different factors may cause this abnormal conduction, including heart disease, alcohol or drug use, certain medications, or an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. Abnormalities in the conductive tissues or cells of the heart may also contribute to this condition.
Diagnosing Atrial Flutter
The diagnosis of AFL typically starts with a physical exam and medical history review by your doctor. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and check your pulse rate to determine whether it is abnormally high. Additionally, your doctor may use an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test or echocardiogram for confirmation of AFL diagnosis as well as any other tests needed to rule out any other possible causes for your symptoms and rapid heartbeat.
Treating Atrial Flutter
Treatment for atrial flutter generally involves restoring normal sinus rhythm using medication, ablation therapy or cardiac pacing devices such as pacemakers if necessary. Medications used to treat AFL include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone and flecainide which are designed to slow down the electrical activity in your heart so that it can beat normally again. Catheter ablation is another option wherein thin wires are inserted through veins into specific regions of your heart in order to create scar tissue that disrupts abnormal electrical pathways causing atrial flutter. Cardiac pacemakers may also be used if necessary by implanting electrodes in specific areas of your heart muscle which result in regular electrical impulses being sent back into your heart leading to a normal rhythm pattern restoration.
Essential Questions and Answers on atrial flutter in "MEDICAL»PHYSIOLOGY"
What is atrial flutter?
Atrial flutter is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, where the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat too quickly and in an organized fashion. It is a fast, regular arrhythmia that originates in the right atrium.
Who can suffer from atrial flutter?
Atrial flutter can affect anyone but it is more common in certain age groups, including those 65 and older, especially if they have underlying conditions such as congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
What are some of the risk factors for developing atrial flutter?
Risk factors for developing atrial flutter include high blood pressure, heart valve problems, coronary artery disease, diabetes, sleep apnea and having had a previous cardiac event such as a heart attack or stroke.
Are there any symptoms of atrial flutter?
Symptoms of atrial flutter may include palpitations (a sensation of feeling the heart beating), shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue and weakness.
How is atrial flutter diagnosed?
Atrial fibrillation can be diagnosed by taking an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure electrical activity in the heart. Additionally, doctors may use other tests such as echocardiography to assess cardiac structure and function or event recorders to detect changes in pulse rate while outside of medical office.
What are possible treatment options for patients with atrial flutter?
Treatment options for patients with atrial flutter will depend on their individual case but may include medications to control heart rate, electrical cardioversion to reset the heart rhythm back to normal and radiofrequency catheter ablation to destroy small areas of abnormal tissue that cause rapid contraction. Surgery may also be considered as a last resort treatment option if all other treatments fail.
Is there any lifestyle changes that can help improve outcomes for those with atrial flutter?
Yes! Practicing healthy habits such as eating nutritious foods, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can improve overall health and help reduce symptoms associated with AFib or AFfl. It's important to avoid cigarettes and limit alcohol consumption when managing this condition. Stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation can also be helpful in managing symptoms related to AFib/AFfl.
AFL also stands for: |
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| All stands for AFL |