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.