Colon polyps are small growths that can appear in the lining of the colon or rectum. These growths can range from less than a quarter of an inch to several inches. While most colon polyps Mineola are benign, some can develop cancer over time if not detected and removed. That is why it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of colon polyps and to undergo regular screenings if you are at risk.

What causes colon polyps?

The exact cause of colon polyps is still unknown. Normally, Cells develop and divide in a specific manner. Colon polyps form when the cells on the colon’s inner lining grow and divide too rapidly, resulting in small growths. Although the exact cause of colon polyps is unknown, certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing them. These risk factors include:

• Age: Colon polyps are more common in people over 50.
• Family history: If someone in your family has had colon polyps or colon cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing them.
• Diet: A diet high in fat and low in fiber can increase your risk of developing colon polyps.
• Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of colon polyps and colon cancer

Symptoms of colon polyps

Colon polyps often do not cause any symptoms. In fact, many people only discover they have colon polyps during a routine colonoscopy.

However, if you have a large polyp, it can cause symptoms like:

• Blood in your stool, in the toilet bowl, or when you wipe with toilet paper. These could be indicators of bleeding inside your colon.
• Diarrhea or constipation that persists for more than a week
• Abdominal pain. If a polyp is causing a blockage in the colon, you may experience abdominal pain.
• Fatigue or difficulty breathing. These might be symptoms of an iron deficiency, which can occur if polyps bleed.

If you experience these symptoms, you must see your doctor for a diagnosis.

Diagnosis of colon polyp

Early detection of polyps is crucial to preventing colorectal cancer. The most common way to diagnose colon polyps is through a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, your doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera on the end to look at the inside of your colon. This allows the doctor to look for polyps or other colon lining abnormalities. If a polyp is detected, it can often be removed during the colonoscopy.

Treatment options for colon polyps

The treatment for colon polyps depends on the size, location, and type of polyp. Most polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure typically taking less than an hour to complete. Your doctor will use a thin wire loop to remove the polyp from the lining of your colon or rectum.

If the polyp is too large to be removed during a colonoscopy, your doctor may recommend surgery. In rare cases, a polyp may be cancerous and require additional treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

If you have symptoms of colon polyps, inform your doctor for an early diagnosis to prevent colorectal cancer. Call Digestive Disease Care to book your appointment for a colonoscopy.