Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are small growths made up of cells that can form on the lining of the large intestine or colon. While an individual may develop only one polyp, some individuals may have multiple polyps. These polyps are typically not a concern as most of them are harmless; however, sometimes these polyps are cancerous or have the potential to become cancerous over time. 

Colon polyps typically cause no noticeable symptoms which is why regular screening tests are recommended in order to detect and remove them. A colonoscopy is a screening test that can detect colon polyps which can also typically be removed during this procedure. 

The Risk Factors Associated with Colon Polyps 

While it is possible for anyone to develop colon polyps, individuals who are fifty years of age or older are at a higher risk for developing them which is why a colonoscopy is recommended for all individuals who are fifty or older.

Other risk factors include a family history of colon polyps or colon cancer, having already had polyps in a previous examination, and ovarian or uterine cancer that has occurred before the age of fifty. Lifestyle factors that increase your risk of developing colon polyps include smoking, the consumption of alcohol, little to no exercise, eating an excess amount of foods that are fatty, and being overweight or obese. 

Symptoms that may occur with Colon Polyps 

While most individuals will experience no symptoms and not be aware that they have colon polyps until they are found in a routine screening test or testing that is done for another medical condition, some individuals may experience signs and symptoms. These signs or symptoms can include bleeding from the rectum or anus that is noticeable on the toilet tissue after a bowel movement or may be seen on the underwear.

Chronic constipation or diarrhea that lasts for more than a period of one week may also be a symptom of polyps. Blood may also show in the stool and might appear as a bright red color or can be dark making the stool appear to be black. 

Treatment and Prevention of Colon Polyps 

In the majority of cases when colon polyps are detected through a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, they are removed during the examination and then sent to a lab to be tested for cancer. Once an individual is diagnosed with having colon polyps, their physician will recommend that screening tests be performed regularly in the future.

While researchers and medical experts have been unable to determine how to specifically prevent colon polyps, there are certain factors that have been identified that may decrease the chances of developing them. 

These factors include avoiding smoking and alcohol, reducing the consumption of fatty foods while increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, and losing weight if you are overweight or obese. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms associated with colon polyps, it is essential that you contact your physician as soon as possible for a medical evaluation.