Colon Polyps

Tissue growths known as polyps that appear on the colon’s surface are usually harmless. They’re often found, and removed, by Digestive Health Center doctors during a routine colon cancer screening exam such as a colonoscopy.

How are Colon Polyps Removed?

It depends on the size of the polyp, whether it’s a spec or several inches. Your Digestive Health Center doctor can burn off tiny polyps or remove them with wire loops or biopsy instruments. For larger polyps, a wire loop inserted through the colonoscope delivers an electrical current that eliminates the growth. This technique is called snare polypectomy.

Once removed, a polyp is analyzed under a microscope to determine its type and whether it’s cancerous.

Who Can Get a Colon Polyp?

Anyone can get a polyp, but you’re at greater risk if:

• There’s a family history of polyps or colon cancer
• Polyps have been found during previous screenings
• You’re overweight
• You’re over 50 years old

If You Have a Family History of Colon Cancer

The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute’s Genetic Counseling & Testing Program, using tests that start with a blood or saliva sample, looks for mutations or alterations in genes that can increase your risk of cancer.

Learn More

Symptoms of a Colon Polyp

Colon polyps are usually symptom-free, but it’s possible you’ll experience:

• Diarrhea, constipation or pain for more than a week
• Nausea, vomiting
• Bloody stool
• Rectal bleeding

Types of Colon Polyps

Here are three types of colon polyps:

• Adenomatous: The most common, with most never becoming cancerous
• Hyperplastic: Harmless. These never develop into cancer
• Malignant: Contain cancer cells

How You Can Help Prevent Colon Polyps

Maintaining a healthy diet and a healthy weight can help prevent colon polyps. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and other high-fiber foods and lean meat should be the foundation of your diet.

Increasing the amount of vitamin D and calcium in your diet can help, too. Look to yogurt, milk, cheese, broccoli, eggs and fish as good sources of both.

Avoid:

• Fried and other high-fat foods
• Red meat (beef, pork)
• Processed foods

Regular exercise and quitting smoking also are prime ways to reduce the risk of colon polyps.

Make an Appointment

Call to schedule an appointment with a digestive health specialist at Hartford Hospital.
Ask your doctor for a referral before you call.

Call 833.2DIGEST
833.234.4378