What are Colon Polyps?
Polyps are benign growths (noncancerous) in the lining of your gastrointestinal tract. They occur most commonly in the colon specifically. Polyps vary in size and are common among adults - more so as you get older.
Causes of Colon Polyps
A definitive cause of polyps is not known, but some research indicates high fat/low fiber diets and genetics may play a role in development. The most commonly known risk factors for developing polyps are:
- Age over 50 years old
- Family history of colon polyps
- Previous history of polyps
- Rare genetic syndromes
- Cancer
Symptoms of Colon Polyps
Polyps rarely cause symptoms. Large polyps occasionally cause bleeding; however most have no symptoms at all.
Diagnosing Colon Polyps
The most effective way to find and remove polyps is with a screening colonoscopy. Most polyps found during colonoscopy can be removed and sent to a pathologist for evaluation. Other methods of screening, such as stool testing and CT enterography are available, but none are as accurate at detecting polyps as colonoscopy.
Treatment for Colon Polyps
Polyps are generally described as hyperplastic or adenomatous. Hyperplastic polyps do not carry a risk for developing colon cancer. Adenomatous polyps can develop into cancer if not removed. Larger adenomatous polyps are more likely to develop into cancer than small polyps. Because no way exists to determine which polyps will form cancer, your physician will remove any polyps found during colonoscopy.
Depending on the findings of your colonoscopy and type of polyps (if any) found, your physician may recommend a repeat procedure in 3-5 years to check for redevelopment of polyps.