Polyps are extra tissue that has grown inside your colon (a.k.a. bowel or large intestine). This is the part of the digestive system responsible for storing and moving body waste. Although some polyps are benign, a cause for concern always exists because they can develop into cancer. Polyps smaller than the size of a pea usually do not become cancerous, while larger ones may develop into cancer or may already be cancerous. For these reasons, doctors remove polyps and have them tested because that is the only way to verify if they are benign.
Cause: There is no exact cause for polyps and anyone can develop them and they can occur at any age. There are a few risk factors for increasing chances of developing polyps. Individuals older than 40, are more likely than younger people to develop polyps since, as age progresses, we become increasingly more likely to develop them. Someone that has a history of polyps in their family or actually developed them in the past are also more likely to develop polyps.
Symptoms: Small polyps do not present any symptoms. Most people do not realize they have them until they are discovered during a colon exam. Larger polyps might produce symptoms of bleeding from the anus, which may be noticed by blood in underwear or on toilet paper following a bowel movement. Someone may also notice blood in the stool (which may actually look black) or may be characterized by red streaks.
Diagnosis: There are four primary tests a doctor will use. The best test is a colonoscopy, which allows a doctor to view (hopefully) the entire colon. This is the most invasive procedure and requires sedation, but is the “Cadillac” of all tests right now. Scientists are coming up with new detection tests, but don’t wait for them.
Treatment: Treating polyps involves removing them completely. This is usually done during the Colonoscopy by snaring the polyps with a loop that cuts it off at the stalk and cauterizes it. When polyps are too large to snare, the doctor may need to operate on your colon by going through the abdomen.
Colon cancer is preventable. By having a Colonoscopy, it could possibly prevent the future occurrence of colon cancer. Achieve Optimal Health focuses on the prevention of illness and cancer without the use of drugs. To promote colonoscopies during Colon Cancer Awareness Month, show us proof of your colonoscopy appointment from now until March 31 and receive a Colon Irrigation session for only $61. Here’s something to consider: Follow the doctor’s instruction in preparing for the colonoscopy. Try the Colon Irrigation session one day prior to the colonoscopy appointment to assure a clean colon.
For more information, please call Achieve Optimal Health, 25078 Peachland Ave. Suite B in Newhall, at 661-253-2900 or visit www.AchieveOptimalHealth.com .