Ampullary Cancer

Overview

Ampullary cancer is a rare and aggressive (fast-growing) cancer that forms inside the ampulla of Vater. The ampulla of Vater is the opening where the ducts that carry digestive juices from your pancreas and liver meet. These juices combine in the ampulla of Vater before draining into the first part of your small intestine (duodenum).

As ampullary cancer forms so close to your liver, pancreas and other digestive system organs, it can easily spread to these areas. Treating ampullary cancer with surgery before it spreads offers the best outlook for the disease.

Another name for ampullary cancer is ampullary carcinoma.

How common is ampullary cancer?

This type of cancer is rare. Ampullary cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cancers affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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