Baker Cyst

Overview

A Baker cyst is a small, fluid-filled bump that forms on the back of your knee. Healthcare providers sometimes call Baker cysts popliteal cysts and synovial cysts. These are all different names for the same issue.

Baker cysts develop when something damages your knee joint or the tissues around it and extra fluid drains out of your knee. The fluid can only drain in one direction — out the back of your joint. That buildup forms the sac that becomes a Baker cyst.

Baker cysts are benign growths. That means they aren’t tumors and are never a symptom of (and don’t cause) cancer.

Visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice a new growth or lump behind your knee, especially if you recently injured your knee or have arthritis.

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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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