Overview

A healthcare provider will begin with a thorough history and physical examination. They’ll ask about your symptoms and medical history. Tell your provider if you’ve had any prior radiation treatment or if anyone in your biological family has a genetic condition or history of cancer. Your provider will look for lumps that may be protruding from your bones. You’ll probably need to see an oncologist — a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer.

Your provider might also use some tests when making a diagnosis, including:

  • Biopsy
  • Blood tests
  • CT scan
  • MRI
  • X-ray

After your provider diagnoses osteosarcoma, the next step is to find out if the cancer cells have spread. This is called “staging.” The cancer can spread through your blood, your lymphatic system or tissues. You may need additional imaging tests like a whole-body bone scan or PET scan. These tests will help your provider see if the cancer has metastasized to other bones, organs or areas of your body.

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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.


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Living with atrial fibrillation?

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