Polyps in the colon are they dangerous? Symptoms and treatment

Although we always tend to think the worst when somewhere in our body we meet or are in the medical consultation with a lump or tumor, the truth is that in most cases the cause is benign. The same thing happens with those known as polyps, that unlike what is usually thought, they are not related to cancerous lesions, but they can become a possible cancerous lesion. For this reason, it is common for many doctors to recommend its removal as a preventive measure.

This is what normally happens with polyps in the colon, which although it is true that they do not tend to be extirpated unless medically strictly necessary (for example, with family or personal history of colon cancer), they are studied and followed by the specialist in order to maintain a control over its evolution.

What are colon polyps?

As we have already explained to you at some other time, a polyp is an overgrowth of tissue, consisting basically of abnormal tissue growth. Although it can appear anywhere on the body (a good example is the nasal polyps that arise inside the nose), are very common medically known as colon polyps.

In this sense, according to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, colon polyps consist of the abnormal growth of tissue from the inner layer or the mucosa of the large intestine (colon), and that can come to light through the intestinal canal.

It is, in fact, one of the medical problems that most tend to affect both the colon and the rectum, estimating that about 20% of the adult population suffers. Moreover, it is likely that we all have one or more polyps right now and we do not know it, as they become more common with age, as we get older.

Why do colon polyps appear? The causes why they arise

From a medical point of view, specialists are not entirely clear about the cause or causes that directly influence the appearance of colon polyps. However, there are some factors that may influence its appearance.

What are those factors? Basically they are the following:

  • Family history of colon polyps or cancer of the colon or rectum.
  • Existence of some inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).
  • Age.
  • Certain habits like smoking.
  • Being overweight.

Not in vain, although there is no family history, colon polyps are more common with age, increasing the risk of appearing in adults.

The symptoms of colon polyps that you should not miss

Did you know that, in reality, Most people with colon polyps have no symptoms? Therefore, the most common or usual is that they are diagnosed in a surprising way before the performance of any medical test, as for example could be the case of a colonoscopy.

However, when colon polyps do produce symptoms, we can summarize them below:

  • Blood in the rectum:It is noticeable to observe staining in the underwear or in the toilet paper after having been cleaned after a bowel movement.
  • Blood in the stool:Appears either with bright red spots or streaks in the stool, or when we are facing black stools.
  • Tiredness and weakness:When polyps cause bleeding, anemia and iron deficiency may occur. As a result, the person may feel weak and tired.

Are colon polyps dangerous? Are they cancerous?

As we have told you, Colon polyps are not cancerous. In fact, in most cases they are benign, which means that it is not cancer or spread.

But as many doctors warn, we must keep in mind that Most of the time colon or rectal cancer starts as polyps, given that over time, as we age, it is possible that some of these polyps may become cancerous.

In this sense, the most common polyps are those known as adenomatous or adenomas, which are masses similar to glands. These develop in the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the large intestine. Therefore, when adenomas become cancerous, they are known medically as adenocarcinoma, which is a type of malignant tumor that precisely arises in cells of glandular tissue.

There is also another type of polyp, known as villous adenoma, which is sometimes flat and can be extended. It is the most risk to become cancer, being more likely to become malignant.

However, colon polyps greater than 1 centimeter are at higher risk of becoming cancer, so that when the diagnosis is made, the usual is its extirpation. The same happens when there is some kind of risk factor.

So, when are colon polyps removed? Your treatment

Colon polyps are removed when there is a risk factor, such as, for example, the presence of a family history of both polyps and cancer of the colon or rectum, age, and the presence of villous adenomas.

In addition, extirpation is also performed when it is diagnosed that the polyp is larger than 1 centimeter, given that they have a higher risk of cancer. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor. ThemesColon

Treatment Options for Colon Polyps | UCLA Digestive Diseases (February 2024)