Common Questions: Atrial Fibrillation
What are the signs of atrial fibrillation?
When is Afib considered a problem?
What happens if Afib isn’t treated?
How is atrial fibrillation treated?
Common Questions: Colon and Rectal (Colorectal) Cancer
What are the early warning signs of colorectal cancer?
How long does it take for colorectal cancer to develop?
Are colon cancer, rectal cancer, and colorectal cancer all the same?
Can you die from colorectal cancer?
Next Question
While not everyone experiences symptoms of Afib, signs can include heart palpitations, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, reduced ability to exercise, difficulty breathing, dizziness or fainting, lightheadedness, and confusion.
Most cases of colorectal cancer begin as a polyp, and it may take as long as 10 to 15 years to become cancerous. For this reason, regular screening to identify and remove polyps is the best way to prevent colon cancer.
Atrial fibrillation is considered to be a dangerous health condition, even if it |doesn’t cause symptoms. If you have Afib, it’s important to work with your doctor on a treatment plan to prevent future complications.
Colon cancer begins in the colon and rectal cancer begins in the rectum, but both areas are part of the digestive system. Because of this, cancers that occur in either area are sometimes referred to as colorectal cancer.
Afib can put you at risk for future problems, including making it easier for blood clots to form and and reducing the heart’s ability to pump blood. If left untreated, over time Afib can weaken the heart and lead to stroke or heart failure.
Blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits marked by constipation or diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss are among the early signs of colon cancer.
All Questions
Typically, doctors first recommend lifestyle changes, including following a heart-healthy diet, exercise, reducing stress, and limiting alcohol. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medications may be prescribed. Various surgical and nonsurgical procedures may also be used.
Yes. The odds of survival are highest for colorectal cancers caught at an early stage. For example, localized colorectal cancer that has not spread outside the colon or rectum has a 90 percent five-year survival rate, while those cancers that have spread to nearby or distant organs have 75 percent and 14 percent five-year survival rates, respectively.
