Colorectal Polyps in Baton Rouge, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat are colorectal polyps?
Colorectal polyps, also known as colon polyps, are a common-place medical condition found in the adult population. The word “colorectal” refers to the colon as well as the rectum. Several health situations, which include the colon, many times also affect the rectum, which is the reason they are almost always talked about together. A colorectal polyp is a polyp that occurs in either the rectum or the colon. A colon polyp is a growth consisting of a group of cells on the lining of the colon or rectum.
Polyps by themselves are often benign and often don't cause symptoms; however, colorectal polyps should be treated because they can, eventually, turn cancerous. To identify colorectal polyps, the GI physicians at Gastroenterology Associates regularly carry out colonoscopy exams. Please get in touch with your nearest location to schedule a colonoscopy in Baton Rouge, LA.
What are the causes of colon polyps?
Colon polyps grow when cells experience more growth or division than what is most common. The medical community remains without proof of why it is that this happens, however, there are correlations and risk factors that are associated with individuals who present with colon polyps.
Common risk factors for colon polyps are:
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Having a family or personal history of colorectal polyps
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
- “Typical Western diet” (high fat, low fiber)
- Being over 45 years of age
- Tobacco use
- Being overweight
- Type 2 diabetes
- Genetic predisposition
Inherited genetic conditions can increase your chance of having colon or rectal polyps. Such conditions include:
- MYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- Serrated polyposis syndrome
- Lynch syndrome
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Gardner’s syndrome
What are common symptoms of colorectal polyps?
Oftentimes, cases of colon or rectal polyps do not manifest with symptoms. If symptoms are present, some of the most prevalent indications of colon polyps include:
- Bloody stool
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea (lasting in excess of seven days)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Constipation
- Iron deficiency anemia
If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, are age 45 or above, or have a family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps and are in the Baton Rouge, LA area, please get in touch with our office about screening for colorectal cancer.
What if a physician finds polyps during a colonoscopy?
It is not uncommon to find polyps during a colonoscopy. Oftentimes these polyps are benign (not cancerous). Polyps identified while undergoing a colonoscopy will often be removed during your colonoscopy (polypectomy) and tested for indications of cancer. In the event that your colorectal polyps are found to be noncancerous, then your provider might advise regular screenings for colorectal cancer going forward. If any polyp is found to be malignant (cancerous), you and your Gastroenterology Associates doctor will work together to create an aggressive treatment plan.
The typical way to address colon or rectal polyps is by excising them. During a colonoscopy (or flexible sigmoidoscopy), polyps in the rectum and colon can be removed as a part of a procedure known as a polypectomy. In severe cases, a portion of or the entirety of your rectum or colon may need to be removed.
Colorectal Polyps FAQs
Are colon polyps genetic?
Carrying a family history of colorectal polyps can increase your personal risk of developing this condition. Some types of polyps can have a genetic association and be more prevalent among relatives. Consult your gastrointestinal specialist regarding your personal and any family history of colon polyps to assess your risk and frequency of colorectal cancer testing.
Will colorectal polyps return?
It is uncommon for a colon polyp to redevelop once it is removed. However, some people can develop new polyps in other areas of the rectum or colon. For this reason, it is crucial to schedule regular screenings for colorectal cancer as prescribed by your gastroenterologist.
Can colorectal polyps be prevented?
You may not be able to keep polyps in the colon or rectum from developing, particularly if you are at greater risk due to your family history. However, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of these polyps. This may include consuming a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco use, drinking alcohol in moderation, and getting adequate exercise. Scheduling routine colonoscopy exams once you turn 45 can also help diminish the risk of polyp development.
How long does it take to recover following colorectal polyp removal?
On average, the majority of individuals need around seven days to recover following having polyp removal during a colonoscopy exam. Our Gastroenterology Associates team will provide you with post-op information on what you can anticipate during recovery and when you can resume your normal routine.
Get treatment for colorectal polyps
Colon and rectal polyps can be identified, excised, and evaluated for cancer at a routine colonoscopy procedure. As a physician-led group of gastroenterology specialists, Gastroenterology Associates works hard to provide a patient-focused experience so you can reach optimal GI wellness. To discover more about colorectal polyps and how they might be detected and excised, we recommend that you reach out to one of our locations in Baton Rouge, LA today.
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