Typical Atrial Flutter

[j1022]

I was recently diagnosed with Atrial Flutter on an EKG. Prior to this I had three times (all of them about 2 weeks apart) I had symptoms with each lasting 4-6 Hrs. The last one(in which the EKG was taken) lasted for 5 days with a pulse rate going from 65 to 130. I have an ablation scheduled very soon. I am in my 50"s and still run 5 miles a day while maintaining a healthy diet for over 30 years. I am going on over three weeks without a Flutter (resting pulse rate is in 50's) My Question--Do I still go through with the surgery? Should wait for more signs to make sure? I currently feel great and continue to lift and workout everyday with out any problems. Is this a case of don't fix what is not broke?

[Cleveland Clinic]

It is almost certain that this flutter will come back.  They almost always do.  Because the ablation is a low risk procedure I would suggesting pursuing it at this point.  More importantly, you should continue to follow with you cardiologist even after the ablation because those patients who have atrial flutter also may have atrial fibrillation.

[runnertom]

  I am also a long time runner and cyclist that has had problems with atrial fibrillation, closely related to flutter. My episodes tended to come on during near-max exertion or from intense emotion situations and last for about 24 hours. I tried beta blockers to prevent them with little or no effect. Now I have been prescribed amiodarone and since I started that I have no problems. I am on the smallest dose that is effective as the medication does have some potentially serious side effects. The doctor prescribed 100mg/day but I do fine with 100mg every three days.
  My brother had atrial fib also also brought on by exertion. His did not respond to medication though and ended up having an ablation. He is now fib-free.
   I am surprised that your insurance would approve an ablation before you had explored the medical route.