Colon polyps

Overview

Adenomas can become cancer over years.

Removing polyps prevents colon cancer.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Colon polyps, a rectal lump, or blood mixed into the stool

Less common

• Usually no symptoms
• Change in bowel habits

When to get medical care

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Age over 45
• Family history

Possible complications

• Colon cancer

Diagnosis

Found during screening.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Colonoscopy: Finds and removes polyps.

Treatment

Removal is the treatment.

Self-care

• Get screened starting at 45
• Eat fiber
• Don't smoke

Prevention

To lower risk:

• Screening
• Fiber

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with family history: Earlier screening.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Removing polyps prevents cancer.

Removing polyps lowers colon cancer risk.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• When is my next colonoscopy?
• What type of polyp did I have?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Colon polyps