What Are Colon Polyps?
Growths and tumors in the body are almost always assumed to be cancerous; however growths within the large intestine are generally benign. Known as colon polyps, these masses do not always indicate the presence of cancer. If left untreated, however, a colon polyp can become cancerous. Colon polyps are easily detected through routine colonoscopies and are usually removed easily through the same procedure.
Information
Colon polyps are small growths in the colon wall and can appear alone or in groups. These polyps can be flat or raised up from the surface. The majority of colon polyps are benign, but some can be cancerous. These polyps are fairly frequent in the elderly and middle-aged adults. Colon polyps usually grow at a slow but steady rate. Since they grow slowly, they do not typically cause immediate blockage in the colon.
Risk Factors
Certain factors, both controllable and uncontrollable, may increase a person's risk of developing colon polyps. A personal or family history of colon polyps increases the likelihood of polyps developing in the future. A history of colon cancer in the family or a prior diagnosis of uterine or ovarian cancer are also risk factors for colon polyps. Other risk factors include smoking, consuming large quantities of fatty foods, being overweight and not exercising enough.
Diagnosis
Colon polyps can be diagnosed by a colonoscopy, where a physician inserts a small camera through the rectum to view the inside of the colon. The colonoscopy can also be performed with an x-ray machine that projects images of the colon onto a computer screen, also known as a computerized tomography scan. In some cases, the physician may decide to insert a liquid called barium through an enema. This substance turns the colon walls white and makes the dark polyps stand out.
Symptoms
A person with colon polyps may not exhibit any symptoms initially. If the polyps become large, they are more likely to cause side effects. Such symptoms include rectal bleeding or blood in the stools. The presence of blood in the stool may cause a blackish appearance. Colon polyps may also cause diarrhea or constipation. If the polyp is particularly large, it may cause bowel obstruction and become painful. An obstruction may also cause cramping and nausea.
Treatment
Colon polyps are usually removed without invasive surgery. Through a colonoscopy, a doctor will insert a small tube with a wire loop attached to the end. This loop is used to surround the bottom of the polyp and cut it off. This tool also prevents bleeding or injury by cauterizing the wound. This treatment is often done during the colonoscopy. Polyps are checked for cancer upon removal. If the polyp is very large, surgery may be necessary to remove the growth.
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