What should I do now?
Call 911
Call 911 for chest pressure, severe trouble breathing, fainting during a racing heartbeat, or stroke signs. Do not drive yourself.
Contact your care team
Contact your care team for recurrent racing, worsening fatigue, reduced activity, or medication and bleeding concerns.
Keep your care plan
Keep your treatment and follow-up plan. Bring questions, readings, and your medication list.
02 / RECOGNIZING SYMPTOMS
What symptoms can atrial flutter cause?
Atrial flutter can make your heart beat faster than normal and reduce how efficiently it pumps blood. Some people notice a sudden racing heartbeat, while others mainly feel tired or short of breath.
Common symptoms include:
- A racing or pounding heartbeat: Your heart may feel fast, even while resting.
- Fluttering in your chest: You may feel repeated thumping or unusual movement in your chest.
- Shortness of breath: Everyday activities may leave you more winded than usual.
- Fatigue or reduced stamina: Walking, exercising, or doing household activities may become harder.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: You may feel unsteady or as though you might pass out.
- Chest discomfort: Some people experience pressure, tightness, or discomfort.
- Fainting: Occasionally, the rhythm can cause a person to pass out.
Can I have flutter without feeling it?
Yes. Some patients have no noticeable symptoms. Atrial flutter may be discovered during a routine EKG or while wearing a heart monitor.
The pulse can be regular or irregular during flutter. A steady pulse—or feeling well—does not necessarily mean the heart is in a normal rhythm.
When should I seek emergency care?
Call 911 for chest pain or pressure, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or signs of a stroke. Stroke symptoms include sudden facial drooping, weakness on one side, or trouble speaking. Do not drive yourself.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ.