I48.9: Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, unspecified

Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter are heart conditions that cause an irregular and often abnormally fast heartbeat. When you have atrial fibrillation, electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers malfunction, causing them to beat rapidly and irregularly. This then makes the heart's lower chambers pump blood ineffectively. Atrial flutter, on the other hand, is similar but the heart's upper chambers beat faster than the lower, leading to a rapid but regular heartbeat. Both conditions can lead to symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and sometimes chest pain. While some people may experience no symptoms, in severe cases, these two conditions can lead to serious complications like risk of stroke or heart failure, due to the improper blood flow in the body. These conditions can occur due to various reasons like age, heart disease, high blood pressure, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Patient Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.

If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.

For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.