Colon polyps: symptoms, causes and how to treat them

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Definition

What are intestinal polyps?

Intestinal polyps (c olon polyp) are small lumps that form in the lining of the large intestine. In most cases, this condition is not that dangerous. However, some clots can develop into colon cancer, which is often fatal if it is not found at a late stage.

These lumps in the large intestine vary in number and size. There are polyps that are shaped like mushrooms (rounded stalks), flat, and spars without stalks.

Polyps in the large intestine also have several types, including:

• Hyperplastic polyps. Types of polyps that are harmless and do not develop into cancer.
• Adenomatous polyp.The most common type of polyps with little potential to become cancerous.
• Malignant polyps.A type of polyp that has cancer cells in it.

The presence of these clots can be detected by screening tests, such as a colonoscopy. Lumps in the large intestine that are detected in the early stages can usually be safely and completely removed.

Therefore, conducting regular screening tests is one of the right ways to detect and at the same time allow for faster treatment.

How common is this disease?

Polyps in the intestine are very common. The risk of a person having a lump in the colon will continue to increase with age.

It is estimated that one-third or more of people aged 60 years or older have at least one polyp in their large intestine.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of intestinal polyps?

As many as 95% of people with suspected polyps in the colon feel no symptoms or signs. Even if the results of the screening show a clot, the symptoms may not be felt. However, a small proportion may feel some changes.

According to the Mayo Clinic, common signs and symptoms of colon polyps are:

Rectal bleeding

Bleeding in the rectum can be a sign colon polyp or cancer or other conditions such as hemorrhoids or small tears in the anus. The rectum is the end of the large intestine.

Change in stool color

Blood can appear as red streaks on the stool or make the stool appear black. However, changes in color can also be caused by food, drugs and supplements.

Change in bowel habits

Constipation or diarrhea that lasts longer than one week may potentially develop a lump in the colon. However, a number of other conditions can also cause changes in bowel habits.

Pain, nausea, or vomiting

Polyps in the large intestine that can block part of the intestine, causing cramps, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Anemia due to iron deficiency

Bleeding from polyps can occur gradually, without visible blood in the stool. Chronic bleeding reduces levels of metals that are essential for the body to produce iron.

This substance allows red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body (hemoglobin). The result is iron deficiency anemia, which can make you feel tired and short of breath.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about certain symptoms, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in stool
• Changes in bowel habits that last longer than one week

If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above, or have any questions, please consult your doctor.

Everyone's body reacts differently. It is always best to discuss what is best for your situation with your doctor.

Cause

What causes intestinal polyps?

The cause of polyps in the intestine is not known exactly. However, researchers say that polyps in the intestines are the result of abnormal tissue growth.

Every day, the cells in the body are damaged, including the cells in the intestines. These cells will later be replaced by new healthy cells (cell mutations). The growth and division of new cells are usually under control.

However, in some cases, these cells form and divide before they are needed. This overgrowth causes polyps to form along the large intestine of various shapes and sizes.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for colon polyps?

Although colon polyp it is not certain, there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition.

Body health factors that can place a person to have colon polyps rather than another are:

• Are over 50 years of age
• Obesity
• Genetic or have a family member with colon polyp or colon cancer
• Have a disease that makes the colon inflamed, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• Have uncontrolled type 2 diabetes
• Have a birth defect, such as Lynch syndrome or Gardner syndrome

Life habits that are less healthy for the digestive system also contribute to increasing the risk of forming lumps in the large intestine, including:

• Smoking and drinking alcohol frequently
• The habit of eating foods high in fat

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is this disease diagnosed?

• Stool test. In the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and fecal occult blood test (FOBT), a stool sample is checked for signs of cancer.
• Colonoscopy. In this test, the doctor inserts a small viewing tube deep into the colon and looks for polyps. The doctor can also remove any lumps in the intestine that are found.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy. This test is like a colonoscopy, except that the viewing interval is shorter so that the doctor can only see the last part of the large intestine. The doctor can remove polyps during this test.

What are the treatments for intestinal polyps?

The doctor will likely remove any lumps found on examination of the colon. Options for appointment include:

Appointment in screening

Most polyps can be removed with biopsy forceps or a coiled wire that snares the polyp. This can be helped by injecting fluid under the polyp to make it protrude from the wall for removal.

If the lump in the intestine is larger than 0.75 inches (about 2 centimeters), fluid can be injected under it to raise it and isolate the polyp from the surrounding tissue so that it can be removed (endoscopic mucosal resection).

Minimally invasive surgery

Polyps that are too large or cannot be safely reached by screening are usually removed using minimally invasive surgery.

Removal of the colon and rectum

If you have a rare inherited syndrome, such as FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis). You may need surgery to remove the colon and rectum (total proctocolectomy).

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat lumps in the colon?

The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you cope colon polyp , including:

• Eat healthy foods for your intestines, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Reduce your intake of foods high in fat, red meat, and processed foods.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
• Don't use tobacco.
• Start to be physically active and maintain a healthy weight.
• Family history. If you have a family history of lumps in your colon, consider getting genetic counseling and getting routine colonoscopy.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor to understand the best solution for you.