A few simple things you should know about colon polyps

A few simple things you should know about colon polyps

What are "colon polyps"?

Colon polyps are basically abnormal tissue growths in the lining of the colon (large intestine or bowel). These growths for the most part are benign, i.e. not cancerous. It is however well worth checking to see if you have colon polyps as they can have a negative affect on bowel health.

Why check for colon polyps and how do they affect bowel health?

Whilst it is true that for the most part colon polyps are benign and are thus nothing to worry about they can be dangerous as they have the potential to become cancerous.  It is for this reason people need to be aware that they ought to take steps to check for colon polyps so that they can be surgically removed if found.

Who can get colon polyps and who should get checked?

The simple answer is anyone and everyone can get colon polyps. There is higher risk of getting them if someone in your family has already had them or has had bowel cancer but everybody is at risk of developing colon polyps and indeed colon cancer. If you have a family association with polyps or bowel cancer or are over 40 you should take steps to check for them.

What are the symptoms of colon polyps?

Generally they are asymptomatic i.e. they have no easily visible symptoms and thus go unnoticed. Generally people are not aware that they have a potential problem until they have a procedure to specifically check for polyps or if they are found during some routine or other check or procedure. Sometimes colon polyps can cause bleeding from the bowel and this is sometimes (but not always) visible in the movements (stool/faeces). If you do see traces of blood this always needs to be checked by a doctor; keep in mind that there are many other causes of blood in the stools e.g. piles.

What medical tests/checks are there for polyps?

There are a number of different tests that can be undergone for polyps including:

• Barium enema - Here a liquid called Barium is introduced to the large intestine by way of an enema and X-rays are taken , to evaluate the lining of the large intestine and to check for the presence of potential polyps

• Sigmoidoscopy, - This procedure involves the insertion of special instrument containing  a video camera with an onboard light source into the rectum and so that the doctor can look at the lower part the large intestine on video screen.

• Colonoscopy - This is similar to a sigmoidoscopy, except that it is done under sedation for the comfort of the patient, and enables the doctor to see the entire large intestine.

• Faecal Occult Blood Test – This is a straightforward test that looks for even minute traces of blood in the stools. (In this instance occult means hidden).  These tests can be carried by your doctor or at home; there are numerous bowel health tests or colon cancer test available online or from a pharmacy.

Heather W

www.checkmybody.co.uk