Colon polyps are growths that appear on the inner lining of the colon or large intestine. These can be of various shapes and sizes, with some being benign and others having the potential to turn into cancer.

It is important to get them detected and removed early to prevent any serious complications. In this article, we will discuss if colon polyps have any symptoms.

What are Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are small, benign growths that develop on the inner lining of the colon or large intestine. These can be of different shapes and sizes, and some can even lead to colorectal cancer if left untreated.

Types of Colon Polyps

There are three different types of colon polyps which include:.

Adenomatous polyps: These polyps are most common and have the tendency to become cancerous.
Hyperplastic polyps: These polyps are more common but less likely to become cancerous.
Hamartomatous polyps: These polyps are rare and usually associated with genetic conditions like Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Symptoms of Colon Polyps

Colon polyps usually do not cause any symptoms; however, some people may experience:.

Rectal bleeding or blood in stools: This is one of the most common symptoms of colon polyps. Fresh blood on the toilet paper or dark black stools indicates blood loss from the rectum or colon.
Abdominal pain or discomfort: Some people may experience pain or discomfort in the lower abdominal area, which can be a sign of colon polyps.
Changes in bowel habits: Changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation, need to be examined and could indicate the presence of colon polyps.
Fatigue: People with colon polyps may sometimes feel tired all the time as a result of blood loss from their rectum or colon.

Causes of Colon Polyps

The exact cause of colon polyps is unknown, though certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing them.

Age: Colon polyps are more common in people aged over 50 years.
A family history of polyps or colorectal cancer: People with a family history of polyps or colorectal cancer are at an increased risk.
Genetic conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP): This is caused by inherited genetic mutations and leads to hundreds of polyps in the colon.
Lifestyle factors: Being overweight or obese, consuming a diet high in red meat and processed foods, smoking, and lack of exercise are all risk factors for colon polyps and colorectal cancer.

Diagnosis of Colon Polyps

The detection of polyps is mostly done during routine colon cancer screenings, which should begin at age 50 for most people.

The screening tests may include:.

Colonoscopy: During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is used to examine the entire colon. If polyps are detected, they can be removed during the same procedure.
Fecal occult blood test: This test examines a stool sample for traces of blood. If blood is found, further diagnostic tests will be done to detect colon polyps or colorectal cancer.
Sigmoidoscopy: This is a similar test to colonoscopy, but only examines the lower part of the colon.

Treatment of Colon Polyps

If polyps are detected, they should be removed immediately to prevent the risk of colorectal cancer.

The removal of polyps is usually done during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Small polyps can be removed through a wire loop called a snare, while larger polyps may need to be removed via surgery.

Prevention of Colon Polyps

There are several things you can do to prevent the development of colon polyps including:.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, while avoiding processed foods, red meat, and smoking.
Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Colon cancer screenings: Regular colon cancer screenings, starting at age 50 (earlier if there’s a family history of colon cancer).
Treatment of underlying conditions: Treating underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel disease can reduce the risk of colon polyps and colorectal cancer.

Conclusion

Colon polyps are usually asymptomatic, making them difficult to detect. They can lead to colorectal cancer if left untreated, so it is important to have regular screenings once you reach age 50 (earlier for those with a family history of colon cancer).

With early detection through screenings and adopting a healthy lifestyle, colon polyps can be treated and managed effectively, reducing your risk of developing colorectal cancer.