Colorectal Polyps in Connecticut
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Find a ProviderWhat are colorectal polyps?
Colon polyps, sometimes called colorectal polyps, are a frequent condition among adults. The word “colorectal” references the colon as well as the rectum. Several health conditions that affect the colon often also affect the rectum, which is why they are usually spoken of together. A colorectal polyp is a polyp that exists in either the rectum or the colon. A colon or rectal polyp is a growth consisting of a group of cells on the lining of the rectum or colon.
Polyps on their own are mostly benign and usually do not lead to symptoms; however, colon polyps need to be treated since they can, after a time, grow to be cancerous. The gastroenterologists at Connecticut GI commonly provide colonoscopy procedures to confirm a suspicion of colon polyps. Please call one of our locations to arrange for a colonoscopy in Connecticut.
What causes colon polyps?
Colon polyps develop when cells experience more division or growth than normal. The world of medicine is still undecided as to the reasons this happens. Still, there are connections and risk factors that are common among people who present with colorectal polyps.
Common risk factors for colon polyps are:
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
- Obesity
- Being over the age of 45
- Having a family or personal history of colon or rectal polyps
- Genetic predisposition
- Type 2 diabetes
- Ulcerative colitis
- “Typical Western diet” (high fat, low fiber)
- Crohn's disease
Hereditary genetic conditions can increase an individual's chance of having colon or rectal polyps. Such conditions may include but are not limited to:
- Gardner’s syndrome
- Serrated polyposis syndrome
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- MYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Lynch syndrome
What are the symptoms of colorectal polyps?
Many instances of colorectal polyps will not be manifested as symptoms. If symptoms are present, some of the most frequently experienced symptoms of colon polyps include:
- Weakness
- Exhaustion
- Pain in the abdominal area
- Shortness of breath
- Constipation
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Diarrhea (lasting in excess of a week)
- Bloody stool
If you are experiencing any combination of the previously mentioned symptoms, are age 45 or older, or have a family history of colorectal polyps or colon cancer and are in the Connecticut area, please reach out to one of our practices for more information on colorectal cancer screenings.
What if a provider identifies polyps during a colonoscopy?
It is common to detect polyps in conjunction with a colonoscopy, and many times, polyps are benign (not cancerous). Polyps discovered through a colonoscopy will usually be removed during a colonoscopy (polypectomy) and assessed for indications of cancer. In the event that your colorectal polyps are found to be non-cancerous, then your provider is likely to request regular colorectal cancer screenings moving forward. If any polyp is found to be malignant (cancerous), you and your Connecticut GI specialist will decide on the appropriate steps moving forward.
The main approach to treating colon polyps is by excising them. During a colonoscopy (or flexible sigmoidoscopy), polyps in your rectum and colon can be removed during a procedure called a polypectomy. In severe cases, some or all of your colon or rectum may require removal.
Colorectal Polyps FAQs
Are colorectal polyps hereditary?
Carrying a familial history of colorectal polyps can increase your own chance of developing this concern. Some types of polyps may carry a genetic link and occur among members of the same family. Consult your GI specialist about your personal and family history with colorectal polyps to determine your risk and the need for colon cancer testing.
Will colorectal polyps return?
Generally, it is rare for a colorectal polyp to return once excised. However, some people may have new polyps in other areas of the rectum or colon. As such, it is imperative to maintain periodic colorectal cancer screenings as recommended by your gastroenterologist.
Can colon polyps be prevented?
You may not be able to keep polyps in the colon or rectum from developing, especially if you carry an increased risk because of genetics. However, healthy lifestyle choices might help reduce the risk of these polyps. This can include following a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco use, limiting the consumption of alcohol, and getting adequate exercise. Having periodic colonoscopy exams when you turn 45 can also help manage the risk of polyp development.
How long is the recovery period after colon polyp removal?
Typically, most patients need around one week to recover after undergoing a polypectomy during a colonoscopy procedure. The Connecticut GI team will review aftercare instructions on what you can anticipate during recovery and when you can proceed with your normal routine.
Find treatment for colorectal polyps
Colon polyps can be detected, removed, and evaluated for cancer at a routine colonoscopy. As a physician-led group of gastroenterologists, Connecticut GI aspires to provide a patient-centric experience. To discover more about colorectal polyps and how they may be identified and removed, please reach out to one of our locations in Connecticut today.
Reviews
This was my 4th or 5th colonoscopy performed by Dr. Frese, and as with all the previous procedures, he and his staff were excellent. He always greets you before the anesthesia for any question you might have, sees you in recovery and calls a couple days after the procedure to go over results if polyps were removed. The staff at the facility are also all professional, friendly, respectful and helpful throughout the preparation and day of the procedure.
Dr. Hemacha has been my doctor going on 20 years now. He is a awesome professional and you feel at ease under his care. His office staff is delightful.
Explained everything thoroughly. Made me feel comfortable. Highly recommend.
Dr Abay is a person makes you feel very comfortable. He is easy to talk to and a great listener. His comments are thoughtful and easily understood. I find him to be an excellent doctor.
Doctor Jo was great. Provided great explanation before the procedure.
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