What is a polyp?
A colon polyp is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon.
Most colon polyps are harmless. But over time, some colon polyps can develop into colon cancer, which is often fatal when found in its later stages.
There are two main categories of polyps, non-neoplastic and neoplastic.
Anyone can develop colon polyps. You're at higher risk if you're 50 or older, are overweight or a smoker, or have a personal or family history of colon polyps or colon cancer.
Colon polyps often don't cause symptoms. It's important to have regular screening tests, such as a colonoscopy, because colon polyps found in the early stages can usually be removed safely and completely.
The best prevention for colon cancer is regular screening for polyps.
Symptoms
Colon polyps often cause no symptoms. You might not know you have a polyp until your doctor finds it during an examination of your bowel.
But some people with colon polyps experience:
- Rectal bleeding.
- Change in stool color.
- Change in bowel habits.
- Pain.
- Iron deficiency anemia.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you experience:
- Abdominal pain
- A change in your bowel habits that lasts longer than a week
You should be screened regularly for polyps if:
- You're age 50 or older.
- You have risk factors, such as a family history of colon cancer. Some high-risk individuals should begin regular screening much earlier than age 50.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20352875
