Zenker’s Diverticulum

Overview

A Zenker’s diverticulum is an issue that affects your throat (pharynx). It’s a pouch that forms at the bottom of your throat where your throat connects to your esophagus. The pouch traps food, making it hard for you to swallow. Zenker’s diverticulum typically affects people aged 70 to 90. You may have this condition for years before you develop noticeable symptoms, and it doesn’t go away on its own. Healthcare providers treat Zenker’s diverticulum with surgery.

Is Zenker’s diverticulum a common condition?

No, it’s not. Studies estimate about 2 in 100,000 people develop this condition.

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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?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.