Polyps in the stomach or small intestine

Overview

Fundic gland polyps are linked to long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and are almost always harmless.

Hyperplastic polyps are linked to H. pylori or long-term inflammation. Adenomas are the type with cancer risk and are removed.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Polyps found on an endoscopy

Less common

• Usually no symptoms
• Upper belly pain
• Low iron from slow bleeding

Look up a symptom: Bloating or gas

When to get medical care

Causes

Acid reducers, H. pylori, inflammation, and inherited polyp syndromes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Long-term PPI use
• H. pylori
• Family polyp syndromes

Possible complications

• Gastritis or stomach ulcer

Diagnosis

Found during an upper endoscopy.

Questions you may be asked

• Acid reducer use
• Family history of polyps or stomach cancer

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Biopsy: Shows the polyp type.
• H. pylori test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the polyp type.

Self-care

• Ask whether you still need your acid reducer
• Treat H. pylori if found
• Keep follow-up endoscopies as advised

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Large polyps or adenomas are removed during endoscopy.

Prevention

To lower risk:

• Use acid reducers only as long as needed
• Treat H. pylori

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).

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

Most stomach polyps are harmless.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• Endoscopy and biopsy report

Questions to ask

• What type of polyp is it?
• Do I need another scope?

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 Polyps in the stomach or small intestine