A colon polyp, also called a colonic polyp or a colorectal polyp, is a small, benign growth that forms on the lining of the colon.

While most colon polyps are harmless, some may develop into cancer. The majority of colon polyps are adenomatous polyps, which are made up of glandular cells.

Polyps can occur in many locations in the body, including ears, nose, uterus or throat.

Other types of colon polyps include inflammatory polyps, hamartomatous polyps, and hyperplastic polyps.

Colon polyps can be found during a colonoscopy, a procedure in which a long, flexible tube is inserted into the rectum and passed through the entire length of the colon.

During a colonoscopy, the doctor may do a removal of a colon polyp.

In this article we will discuss more on the symptoms of colon polyps, causes and diagnosis.

Colon Polyp Types

There are three main types of colon polyps: adenomatous, hyperplastic, and inflammatory. Each type has different characteristics and may pose different risks for cancer.

Adenomatous polyps are the most common type of colon polyp and are generally considered to be premalignant.

Hyperplastic polyps are the least likely to become cancerous. Inflammatory polyps are a type of polyp that can be caused by inflammation in the colon.

Symptoms of Colon Polyps

Polyps are more commonly found in the rectum and sigmoid colon. However, they may be found anywhere in the large intestine.

Symptoms of colon polyps include:

• Bleeding from the rectum after a bowel movement
• Blood in the stool
• Change in stool color
• Diarrhea
• Constipation lasting
• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor so they can determine whether or not you have colon polyps.

What Causes Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are very common. Most people have them and don’t even know it.

The exact cause of colon polyps is unknown. However, there are some risk factors that may increase your chance of developing them.

These include:

• Family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
• If you are over the age of 45
• Excessive alcohol
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Lack of exercise
• Personal history of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Diagnosis of Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are typically diagnosed during a colonoscopy, which is a procedure where a doctor inserts a long, thin tube with a camera attached into the rectum and colon.

During the procedure, the doctor will remove any polyps that are found. It is important to get regular colonoscopies, as they can help to detect colon polyps early, before they have a chance to turn into cancer.

If you have any family history of colon cancer, or if you are over the age of 50, it is important for you to have regular cancer screenings as prevention or early detection which may save your life.

There are several screening tests that can be used to detect polyps or colorectal cancer, including stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and virtual colonoscopy.

Stool Test 
Stool DNA testing is intended to screen for colon cancer or precancerous polyps in people with no symptoms. The stool DNA test detects abnormal DNA and small amounts of blood shed into the stool from colon cancer or colon polyps.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted through the rectum to examine the last third of the large intestine (sigmoid colon) for polyps or cancer.

Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to visualize the inside of the large intestine (colon) and rectum.

A colonoscopy is performed using a colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube. The colonoscope is inserted through the rectum into the colon to examine the inside of the colon for abnormal growths, inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, or other problems.

Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy is a cutting-edge technology that allows doctors to get a clear view of the inside of the colon without having to go through the traditional, invasive colonoscopy procedure.

This technology is revolutionizing the way colon cancer is detected and treated.
 

Treatment Options for Colon Polyps

There are several treatment options for colon polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum.

Treatment may be recommended if a polyp is large, if there are multiple polyps, or if a polyp is precancerous.

Treatment options include polypectomy, which is removal of the polyp during a colonoscopy, and ablation, which is destruction of the polyp. Surgery may also be an option.

Although virtual colonoscopy is a useful tool for visualizing the entire colon, it does not provide the same level of detail as colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy is the only procedure that enables both visualization and removal of polyps, making it the gold standard for diagnosing and treating potential problems in the colon.

Risk Factors

There are many different risk factors for colon polyps, and it is important to be aware of them.

Age is the most important risk factor, with the majority of colon polyps occurring in people over the age of 50.

Other risk factors include a family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer, a personal history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain genetic syndromes.

Some lifestyle factors may also increase the risk of colon polyps, such as smoking, obesity, and a diet high in fat and red meat.

If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to talk to your doctor about how to best reduce your risk.

Can Colon Polyps Be Prevented?

Prevention of colon polyps is important because they can develop into cancer. There are many things you can do to lower your risk.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for many reasons, including reducing the risk of developing colon polyps.

While colon polyps are not always cancerous, they can be a precursor to cancer.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help prevent the development of colon polyps:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding smoking are all good ways to reduce your risk
• Maintain a healthy weight

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may need to be extra careful and get screened more often.

Talk to your doctor about what is right for you.

Why Colon Cancer Screening is Important
 

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, yet it is one of the most preventable cancers.

Screening tests can find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk for colon cancer start regular screening at age 50.

People with a family history of colon cancer or other conditions that increase the risk should start screening earlier.

Screening for colon cancer can help prevent these deaths by finding cancer early, when it is most likely to be curable.

Contact Dr. Schneider

In conclusion, it is important to understand the risks and causes of colon polyps in order to take steps to prevent them.

While some polyps are benign, others can develop into cancer.

Anyone can get colon polyps, but there are certain risk factors that increase your chances of developing them.

These include age, family history, smoking, and certain medical conditions. If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.

If you are concerned about colon polyps, talk to us today to book your appointment.

For further reading on the procedures we perform, please visit our website or contact Dr. Schneider on 011-482-3010.

What are Colon Polyps?

A polyp is a growth that develops on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.

It is an abnormal tissue growth that resembles little, flat bumps, or mushroom-like stalks.
The majority of polyps are tiny, measuring less than half an inch in diameter.

Polyps can be either be benign or cancerous. Benign polyps are not cancerous and typically do not cause any problems.

Cancerous polyps, on the other hand, can invade and damage nearby tissue and can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body.

Most colon polyps are small and do not cause any problems. However, some colon polyps can grow large enough to block the intestine or to bleed. Colon polyps that bleed can cause iron-deficiency anemia.

Polyps are common, and most are not cancerous. However, some polyps can become cancerous over time.

Polyps are usually detected during a routine colonoscopy. Removal of polyps during a colonoscopy is a common and safe procedure.
Early detection is crucial for treatment and prevention of colon cancer.

Explanation of Colon Polyps Symptoms

Polyps vary in size from a tiny dot to a large growth.

Most colon polyps do not cause any symptoms. If a polyp does cause symptoms, they may include:

• Blood in the stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Feeling that you have to have a bowel movement even after having one
• Constant urge to have a bowel movement
• Fullness in the stomach after eating a small amount of food
• Pain in the abdomen or rectum
• Change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to determine if you have colon polyps.

Diagnosis

Polyps are usually found during a routine screening test, such as a colonoscopy.

If a polyp is found, your doctor will likely remove it during the colonoscopy. This is done to determine if the polyp is cancerous.

How to Prevent Colon Polyp

It is important to be proactive about your health and to be aware of the risks associated with developing colon polyps.

While colon polyps are not always cancerous, they can be a precursor to cancer.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help prevent the development of colon polyps. Some of the best ways to prevent colon polyps include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining a healthy weight

Finding the Right Treatment for Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a serious disease that can be treated if it is found early.

One way to find cancer early is to get screened for colon polyps. Colon polyps can become cancerous over time, so it’s important to get them removed.

There are different ways to remove colon polyps. Some polyps can be removed with a special tool that is inserted through the rectum. Other polyps may need to be removed surgically. If you have colon polyps, it’s important to find the right treatment for colon cancer.

Colon polyps can also be removed with a laser or by freezing them. If the polyps are small and not causing any problems, your doctor may simply keep an eye on them.

Talk to your doctor about the best treatment for you.
 

How to Manage Colon Polyps

Most people will never experience a colon polyp, but for those who do, it can be a frightening experience.

Colon polyps are typically small, but they can grow large enough to block the intestine. Colon polyps can also become cancerous, so it’s important to get them removed if they are found.

Here are a few ways to manage colon polyps:

Eating a Healthy Diet
Most people know that eating a healthy diet is important for maintaining a healthy weight, but what many people don’t realize is that eating a healthy diet is also important for maintaining good health overall.

This is especially true when it comes to preventing colon polyps.

There are a few simple things you can do to help keep your colon healthy and reduce your risk of developing colon polyps.

First, make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are a good source of fiber, which is important for keeping your digestive system healthy.

Second, avoid eating processed foods and foods high in sodium. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and sodium, which can increase your risk of developing colon polyps.

Exercising Regularly

There is evidence that points to regular exercise helping to reduce the risk of developing colon polyps, a precursor to colorectal cancer.

A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology; Biomarkers & Prevention found that individuals who exercised regularly were less likely to develop colon polyps.

The study found that those who exercised between three and five times a week were 24% less likely to develop colon polyps.

The study also found that those who exercised more than five times a week were 33% less likely to develop colon polyps.

While the study found a correlation between regular exercise and a reduced risk of developing colon polyps, it did not prove that regular exercise prevents colon polyps from forming.

Managing Stress

Managing stress is an important part of preventing colon polyps. When a person is under a lot of stress, the body releases hormones like cortisol that can increase the risk of developing polyps.

There are a few things that people can do to help manage their stress. Some people find that exercise is a good way to relieve stress.

Exercising releases endorphins, which can help to make a person feel better. Some people find that yoga or meditation can also help to reduce stress.

Another way to manage stress is to take some time for yourself. This can mean taking a relaxing bath, reading, or taking a walk.

It is important to find something that you enjoy and that helps you to relax.

Taking Medications

If you’ve been diagnosed with colon polyps, your doctor will likely prescribe medications to help remove them.

There are a few different types of medications that can be used, and the one your doctor prescribes will depend on the size and type of polyps.

There are two categories of medications that are typically used to treat colon polyps:

• Polyp elimination medications – These medications are designed to help the body eliminate the polyps.
• Medications to reduce the risk of polyp recurrence – These medications are designed to help keep the polyps from coming back.

What Happens During Colonoscopy?

A Colonoscopy is used to look inside the colon to find any potential problems that may be hiding.

This is done by inserting the end of a long, flexible tube called a Colonoscope into the Rectum.

The tip of the Colonoscope has a mini light and camera on the end. Once the end of the Colonoscope has been inserted, the doctor can slowly push it through the Rectum and into the colon, while taking pictures of any abnormalities.

If you are experiencing the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with your GP:

• Stomach pains
• Abdominal discomfort
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal swelling
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting

The process can be uncomfortable, but your doctor is there to help ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible the entire time.

They will give you a sedative that will make you drowsy and then you will be given a bowel cleansing solution to take the night before the exam to empty your bowels.

Conclusion

If you are concerned about colon polyps, talk to us today to book your appointment.

For further reading on the procedures we perform, please visit our website or contact Dr. Schneider on 011-482-3010.

Overview

Colorectal cancer is a deadly disease that is one of the most common cancers in the United States.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. This cancer type is often diagnosed in the later stages when it has become resistant to treatment.

The five-year survival rates are higher when colorectal cancer is detected early. That’s why a complete understanding of this disease, its symptoms, and diagnostic methods can be so crucial for prevention.

Colorectal cancer is typically marked by the growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum. These cells can multiply and eventually destroy healthy tissue as they grow or may even spread to other parts of the body.

The symptoms of colorectal cancer may also include blood in stool, diarrhea, unintentional weight loss, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.

Treatment for colorectal cancer will depend on the type and severity and can include chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Prevention methods include screening methods such as colonoscopy and fecal occult blood test.

In this article, we explore the basics of colorectal cancer and how to diagnose this disease through a testing process.

Colorectal Cancer Explained

Colorectal Cancer is the term used to describe cancer that has started in the colon, which is an area of your large intestine, or in the rectum, which is the lower end of your large intestine.

Colorectal cancer generally begins as an abnormal growth of cells called polyps. This is referred to as adenoma (which means “adenoid cystic tumors”). If left untreated, adenomas can develop into cancerous tumors.

It’s estimated that 1 in every 20 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Approximately 10 percent of cases occur in those under the age of 50.

The presentation of colorectal cancer can be quite variable, and most cases are not detected until either symptoms appear or signs are seen on a routine endoscopic screening test (colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy).

Depending on the stage of cancer, symptoms can include cramping, rectal bleeding, changes to bowel habit or weight loss.

When caught early there can be successful treatment but it is important to seek advice from your doctor if you have any concerns about your health.

Most colorectal cancers start as adenomas, and these tend to occur on the outer and inner aspects of the lower part of colon known as sigmoid colon.

A tumor can also start inside one any part of the colon or rectum, but this is not very common.

There are several types of colon cancer, let’s look at the breakdown on them below:

Classical (end stage) colon cancer

This type is the most common type of colon cancer and is also the deadliest. The spread of colon cancer to other parts of the body is called metastasis.

Malignant (new) Colon Cancer

It is a tumor that grows inside the colon and rectum. According to the American Cancer Society, it is the second most common form of cancer in the United States.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

People with colorectal cancer can have a wide range of symptoms.

A specific symptom of colorectal cancer, however, is a persistent change in the size, shape, or other characteristics of the bowel.

You should talk to your doctor about changes in bowel habits that last for two weeks or longer.

Most common symptom of colorectal cancer are as follows:

• Persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

• Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain
• A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

These are the most common symptoms.
Other symptoms may include pain in the rectum or in the anal region.

How is Colorectal Cancer diagnosed?

Colorectal cancer can be hard to diagnose, because the symptoms have overlapping features with other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

The important thing is to not be afraid of having your symptoms checked out.

Many people think it is normal to have lower back pain or severe cramping but, if you experience these symptoms in excess then see a doctor and do not ignore them.

Tests used for diagnosis of colorectal cancer include:

Colonoscopy:
The first thing to do is to have a colonoscopy, which is a procedure where the doctor examines the rectum and colon to view them on camera.

Ultrasound:
This is the most common test, as it is affordable and non-invasive.
It allows for early diagnosis.

Sigmoidoscopy:
A thin, flexible tube (oscopy) is inserted into the rectum. It is inserted through the anus and stretched. Inside the tube, the doctor will look at the inside of the rectum and colon.

Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer

There are several treatment options for colon cancer, but surgical options are preferred to other treatments as they are the most effective in reducing cancer cells.

One type of surgery is called S-T Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan, which allows doctors to identify where the tumor is located.

However, the treatment has very limited success.

One of the leading surgical options for colon cancer is the Transseptal Surgery, which aims to remove the tumor but doctors know that this procedure will never cure colon cancer.

Survival Rate

The general survival rate for stage 4 colon cancer is 25 percent.
In addition, only 5 percent of people with stage 4 colon cancer survive for 10 years or more.

Risk Factors

Cancer is a general term for abnormal cellular growth inside or on the body and there are many forms of the disease.

Colorectal cancer treatments vary depending on a number of factors and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy and combinations of these treatments.

Oncologists used to believe that colorectal cancers were caused by hereditary gene mutations but are now attributing them to environmental factors such as diet, heredity and lifestyle choices instead.

If you want to reduce your colorectal cancer risk factors through lifestyle changes then start by eating lots of fruits and vegetables (eat as many different colour types as possible) because they help provide antioxidants that kill damaging free radicals in the gut and promote natural cell regeneration.

You also need to exercise regularly because if you don’t keep fit with regular aerobic exercise then it can increase your chances of gaining weight which can create an environment within your colon conducive to developing cancerous cells.

Factors that may increase your risk of colon cancer include:

• Age
  A majority of people with colon cancer are 50 or older. However, colon cancer can be diagnosed at any age.
• Personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer
  If you had colon cancer or polyps, your changes are higher at colon cancer in future.
• Inflammatory Intestinal Conditions
  Chronic colon diseases like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease.

When to Seek Medical Care

Call your gastroenterologist for advice if any unexpected symptoms occur, including:

• Blood in stool
• Rectal Bleeding with or without pain
• Increased diarrhea or constipation
• Unintentional weight loss
• Severe Abdominal Pain
• Drastic changes in bowel pattern
• Persistent but minor bleeding
• Ongoing bloating and abdominal discomfort

We recommend going directly to the emergency room if the patient experiences any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Heavy bleeding from the anus (rectum)
• Vomiting

Dr. Schneider is here to provide you with expert medical advice in the field of gastroenterology.

Book an appointment online or contact us  on 011 482-3010 to find out more. 

At GIDOCJHB, we treat patients with a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, and we use the latest medical advances in the industry.

We help you understand the basics of how a colonoscopy is performed, how to better prepare both the night before and on the day, and how to interpret results.

Colonoscopies can help save lives, and with colon cancer diagnosis under the age of 50 on the rise, it’s important to get your screenings done through an experienced gastroenterologist.

We understand that a colonoscopy can be uncomfortable at times (the truth is that colonoscopies are not nearly as bad as you probably think), but it can be a crucial procedure at detecting colon cancer at its early stages.

Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, we are also taking relevant measures to keep our patients, staff, and facilities safe so we can still provide you with important screening procedures.

Why Colonoscopies Are Performed

A colonoscopy is a life-saving procedure performed by a gastroenterologist to screen for colon abnormalities inside your large bowel (also known as the colon) that may or may not be cancer.

It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube that has a small video camera attached, with makes it possible for a gastroenterologist to examine the entire colon and also take biopsies (small pieces of tissue) for further examination.

Colonoscopies detect cancers while they’re still in the early treatable stages, and can also be used to check the colon after cancer treatment.

You Should have a Colonoscopy if:

• If you are 45 years of age with a family history of colon cancer. 50 years of age if you don’t have a family history
• If you have a family history such as a parent or sibling that has or had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it’s recommended to book a consultation with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible to determine if your colonoscopy should be scheduled sooner.
• If you are having symptoms of colorectal cancer such as rectal bleeding, dark-colored stools, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain and cramps, and unexpected weight loss, it’s recommended to speak with your gastroenterologist about your condition.
• If you would like to look at the general condition of your colon to see if there’s any swollen tissue, ulcers, tumors, inflammation, unexplained objects, and bleeding.
• If you’ve been diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis in the past.
• If you’ve been exposed to radiation around your abdominal or pelvic area at any point in your life, to treat prior cancer for example.
• If you’ve had surgery to remove part of your colon.

What if they Find Something?

Generally speaking, if you have been going for your recommended colonoscopy checkups and your gastroenterologist has found polyps, it will be in its early stages, which means a very high chance of effective treatment, especially in stage zero (not extended beyond the inner lining of the colon) and stage one (grown deeper into the layers of the colon wall, but have not spread beyond the wall or into the lymph nodes.)

Your Colonoscopy Schedule

It’s best to discuss your colonoscopy schedule with your gastroenterologist as specific cases will require specific care.

However, it’s recommended to get your first screening between the ages of 45-50.

Your screenings will stop once you reach the age of 75 if you are healthy, or 85 if abnormalities were previously found. It’s important to note that as you age, your risk of developing polyps and colon cancer increases.

Because colon cancer develops slowly, most people will not need to have a colonoscopy more than once every five years, but it’s still best to discuss your unique situation with your gastroenterologist.

• If your screening colonoscopy showed a healthy, normal colon, you may not need another screening for 10 years.
• If you had one or two low-risk polyps removed, you should have another colonoscopy in 5 to 10 year.

How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy

It’s recommended to clear your calendar on the day of your colonoscopy and plan for a driver to take you back home as you will feel drowsy.

Your diet will play an important role in the days leading up to your procedure, but your gastroenterologist will advise you on foods to eat and foods to avoid.

More ways on how to better prepare for a colonoscopy

How a Colonoscopy Procedure Works

On the day of your procedure, you’ll be asked to change clothes either into a gown or something more light. and you’ll be given a sedative and/or anesthesia to make your feel more relaxed.

Once you feel a bit drowsy, you’ll be instructed to lay down sideways and bring your knees to your chest so the colonoscopy flexible tube can be easily inserted into your rectum.

A colonoscopy procedure usually takes around 30-45 minutes. Once your procedure is finished, you’ll still feel drowsy, which is why you should have someone drive you home.

It’s normal to experience small amounts of bleeding or bloating following your procedure, however, if your blood becomes heave or is accompanied by a fever, contact your gastroenterologist immediately.

What Should I Expect After a Colonoscopy?

Following your procedure, you’ll most likely stay at the hospital for about an hour for monitoring and be given instructions on how to care for yourself while at home.

You may also feel bloated and drowsy for a few hours, however, the sedatives should wear off soon thereafter.

Your recovery period is generally very fast, usually, by the next day you should feel much better and can continue your normal work routine and lifestyle activities.

Your gastroenterologist will share the results of your colonoscopy with you and discuss the next steps too.