Colorectal Polyps in San Antonio, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat are colorectal polyps?
Colon polyps, occasionally known as colorectal polyps, are growths frequently found in patients. The term “colorectal” includes the colon as well as the rectum. Multiple conditions that affect the colon tend to affect the rectum, which is why they are typically referenced together. A colon polyp is a growth made up of a mass of cells on the lining of your colon or rectum.
Polyps on their own are often benign and don't cause symptoms; however, colon polyps need to be removed because over time they can become cancerous. In order to detect colorectal polyps, the gastrointestinal specialists at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates commonly perform colonoscopy procedures. Contact our office to arrange for a colonoscopy in San Antonio, TX.
What causes colorectal polyps?
Colon polyps form when cells grow or divide more than what is normal. The medical community remains undecided as to the reasons why this happens; however, there are correlations and risk factors that are common among those who have colon polyps.
Some of the risk factors for colorectal polyps are:
- Tobacco use
- Genetic predisposition
- Having a family or personal history of colorectal polyps
- “Typical Western diet” (high fat, low fiber)
- Being over 45 years of age
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Crohn's disease
- Being overweight
- Type 2 diabetes
- Ulcerative colitis
Inherited genetic conditions can elevate a person's risk of developing colon or rectal polyps. Such conditions include:
- Serrated polyposis syndrome
- Lynch syndrome
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Gardner’s syndrome
- MYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
What are the symptoms of colorectal polyps?
Oftentimes, cases of colon polyps will not manifest with symptoms. If symptoms are present, some of the most prevalent indications of colorectal polyps include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea that lasts longer than seven days
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Bloody stools
- Weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms, are 45 years of age or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, get in touch with San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates to learn more about screening for colorectal cancer.
What does it mean if polyps are detected during a colonoscopy?
It is common to have polyps found while undergoing a colonoscopy, and many times, polyps are benign (not cancerous). Polyps discovered will often be removed during the course of a colonoscopy and evaluated to see if they are cancerous. If your colon polyps are diagnosed as non-malignant, then your provider is likely to recommend routine screenings for colorectal cancer moving forward. If any polyp is determined to be malignant (cancerous), you and your San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates specialist will discuss the appropriate next steps.
The most common way to address colon or rectal polyps is by removing them. During the course of a colonoscopy (or flexible sigmoidoscopy), polyps in your rectum and colon can be removed in conjunction with a procedure referred to as a polypectomy. In more serious cases, a part of the, or the entire, rectum or colon may need to be removed.
Colorectal Polyps FAQs
Are colon polyps a hereditary condition?
A family history of colorectal polyps can increase your risk of developing this GI concern. Some types of polyps can have a genetic link and be more likely to occur among members of the same family. Speak with your GI provider regarding your personal and family history with polyps to evaluate your own risk and frequency of colon cancer testing.
Will colorectal polyps grow back?
It is unusual for a colon polyp to grow back once it is completely removed. However, some people might have new polyps in other locations within the rectum or colon (large intestine). It is vital to schedule periodic screenings for colorectal cancer as recommended by your provider.
Can colon polyps be avoided?
You may not be able to keep colon polyps from developing, particularly if you carry a higher risk due to hereditary factors. However, a healthy lifestyle could help minimize the risk of these polyps. This includes eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding tobacco use, consuming alcohol in moderation, and getting adequate exercise. Having routine colonoscopies upon turning age 45 can also help lessen the chance of polyp development.
How long does it take to recover following colorectal polyp removal?
In general, most people require approximately a week to recuperate following undergoing a polypectomy during a colonoscopy procedure. The San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates team will provide you with post-op instructions on what to expect during recovery and when you can proceed with your normal activities.
Find treatment for colorectal polyps
Colorectal polyps can be located, removed, and evaluated for cancer during the course of a routine colonoscopy procedure. As a physician-led team of GI specialists, San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates works to deliver a patient-centric experience. To discover more about colon and rectal polyps and how they might be found and removed, we recommend that you reach out to one of our gastroenterology locations in San Antonio, TX today.
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