Bowel polyps are small growths on the inner lining of the large bowel. Most are harmless and cause no symptoms, so many are found by chance during a colonoscopy. Some types, however, can slowly change over years and are the usual starting point for bowel cancer. That is why finding and removing polyps, most often during a colonoscopy, is such an effective way to protect bowel health.
What are bowel polyps?
Adenomas
The type that can slowly change over time, so they are removed
Hyperplastic polyps
Usually harmless and low risk
Often symptomless
Most cause no symptoms at all
Occasional bleeding
Sometimes the only sign is a little blood in the stool
Found at colonoscopy
Usually discovered, and removed, during the test
When to seek assessment promptly
- Blood in the stool or when wiping
- A change in bowel habit lasting more than a few weeks
- A family history of polyps or bowel cancer
- Being due, or overdue, for bowel screening
- Any bowel symptom that persists, especially over 50
How it is investigated and treated
Polyps are most often found during a colonoscopy, a camera test that looks directly at the bowel lining. In most cases they can be removed during the same procedure, a step called a polypectomy, without the need for separate surgery. Removing a polyp interrupts the slow process by which some polyps could otherwise become cancerous. After removal, each polyp is examined under a microscope, and Mr Kimble advises whether any follow-up is needed and when, based on the number, size and type of polyps found.
Polyps rarely cause symptoms, but you should see a doctor if you notice bleeding from the bowel, a lasting change in bowel habit or unexplained weight loss, so the cause can be checked.