Intestinal amassions are abnormal growths that develop in the intestine or rectum. These growths can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Intestinal amassions are commonly known as polyps, and they can be found in people of all ages, but they are more common in older adults.
Symptoms of Intestinal Amassion
The symptoms of intestinal amassion can vary depending on the size and location of the growth. Small polyps may not cause any symptoms at all, while larger polyps can produce symptoms such as:.
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weakness or fatigue
Causes of Intestinal Amassion
The exact cause of intestinal amassion is not known, but research has shown that certain factors can increase the risk of developing growths in the intestine or rectum. These risk factors include:.
- Age – people over the age of 50 have a higher risk of developing intestinal amassion
- Family history – people with a family history of intestinal amassion or colorectal cancer are more likely to develop polyps themselves
- Diet – a diet high in fat and low in fiber may increase the risk of developing polyps
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
Prevention of Intestinal Amassion
While the exact cause of intestinal amassion is unknown, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing growths in the intestine or rectum. These steps include:.
- Get screened regularly for colorectal cancer
- Eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber and low in fat
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
Treatment of Intestinal Amassion
If intestinal amassion is suspected, a doctor may perform a colonoscopy (a procedure that involves using a flexible tube with a camera to look at the inside of the colon and rectum) to confirm the diagnosis.
If polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they may be removed during the procedure. The removed polyps will be sent to a laboratory for examination to determine if they are benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Types of Intestinal Amassion
There are two main types of intestinal amassion: adenomatous and hyperplastic. Adenomatous polyps are the most common type of polyp and are more likely to become cancerous. Hyperplastic polyps are less common and are usually benign.
Other types of polyps include:.
- Serrated polyps
- Inflammatory polyps
- Juvenile polyps
- Hamartomatous polyps
Risk Factors for Intestinal Amassion
Several factors can increase the risk of developing intestinal amassion, including:.
- Age
- Family history of polyps or colorectal cancer
- Personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- A diet high in fat and low in fiber
Complications of Intestinal Amassion
While most intestinal amassions are benign and do not cause any problems, some complications can occur, such as:.
- Bleeding from the polyp
- Anemia (a lack of red blood cells)
- Intestinal obstruction (a blockage in the intestine)
- Cancer (if the polyp becomes malignant)
Conclusion
Intestinal amassions are growths that can develop in the intestine or rectum. While most growths are benign, some can become cancerous.
There are several risk factors for developing intestinal amassion, but these can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer. If polyps are suspected, a doctor may perform a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and remove any growths that are found.