What are Colon Polyps?
A polyp is a mass of cells, a small growth, in the inner lining of the colon. A polyp in relation to the inner surface of the intestine can be flat or raised. There are several types of polyps, and some can eventually grow over time and become cancerous.
What Causes Colon Polyps?
The cause of polyps is unknown. However, they are found in about 20 to 30% of the adult population. Generally, they are more common in people over the age of 50, the age at which doctors recommend patients undergo a colonoscopy to check for colon polyps. If someone in your family has had colon polyps, you may be advised to have an endoscopic examination.
Individuals with a history of polyps or colon cancer may be more likely to develop polyps. You are also more likely to develop polyps if you had ovarian or uterine cancer before the age of 50.
Additional Risk Factors for Polyps Include:
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Being overweight or obese
What Are the Symptoms of Colon Polyps?
Most colon polyps do not show symptoms. Doctors can diagnose them through endoscopic examination. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Rectal bleeding (the last section of the colon that allows feces to leave the body). Blood may appear on underwear or toilet paper after a bowel movement.
- No bowel movement for more than a week
- Diarrhea for more than a week
- Blood in the stool (may appear black or have blood)
- Mucus discharge
- Abdominal pain (rare)
However, the above symptoms are very rarely caused by polyps. This is why it is important to be of the appropriate age for colon cancer screening and to undergo preventive colonoscopy.
How Are Colon Polyps Diagnosed?
A doctor can find colon polyps in several ways, such as:
- Colonoscopy: A procedure where a long, thin, flexible tube is inserted through the anus into the colon. The tube has a camera that shows images on a screen and a tool to cut any polyps.
- Sigmoidoscopy: A thin, flexible tube is inserted through the rectum to examine the last quarter of the colon (sigmoid colon).
- CT Colonoscopy: This is similar to a colonoscopy but takes less time. X-rays are taken to create images of the colon. A colonoscopy will be needed if polyps are found.
- Barium Enema: A procedure where barium is inserted into the colon via an enema, and X-ray images are taken.
- Stool Test: You provide a stool sample to the lab, which will be sent for examination. There are various types of stool tests that are repeated at different intervals.
If there is a positive finding during sigmoidoscopy, CT colonoscopy, barium enema, or stool testing, then a colonoscopy is recommended.
What Happens If You Have a Polyp in the Colon?
When a polyp is found, the doctor will remove it and examine it to see what type it is. Most polyps are removed during a colonoscopy. Your doctor will determine when you should have a follow-up screening based on the number of polyps, the type of polyps, and risk factors.
Although the cause of colon polyps is not known, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing polyps if you:
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Lose any excess weight
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
- Avoid fatty foods
- Eat more calcium (such as milk, cheese, broccoli)
- Take a low-dose aspirin daily, which may help prevent polyps. (Discuss any medication changes or additions with your doctor.)
