Colon and Rectal Polyps

A polyp is a small growth of extra tissue that typically forms on the lining of the colon or large intestine. Polyps in the colon and rectum are found in approximately 25 percent of men and women aged 45 and older. Most polyps are harmless, but some can develop into cancer. 

Symptoms

In most cases, polyps don't cause symptoms unless they become cancerous. If you do have symptoms, you may have:

• Stools that look red or black
• Anemia
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Cramps and abdominal pain
• Rectal bleeding

Treatments

If your provider discovers polyps during a colonoscopy, they can usually remove them during the procedure.

If the polyps are too large to remove during a colonoscopy, you may need to have surgery to remove them.

Risk Factors

You're more likely to develop polyps if you:

• Are over the age of 50
• Are overweight
• Smoke
• Have an inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
• Are Black
• Have three or more alcoholic drinks per day

Having a family history of polyps or colon cancer also puts you at a higher risk. However, anyone can develop polyps.