MORE ABOUT POLYPS OF THE RECTUM A Polyp grows from the lining of the colon and can be common in both men and women over the age of 50. It is an abnormal growth that can take on various shapes and sizes. Most polyps are benign but certain polyps of the rectum have been associated with the development of bowel cancer. CAUSES OF POLYPS OF THE RECTUM It is not fully understood why polyps develop, although there is a rare hereditary condition that can lead to hundreds of polyps developing in the colon and rectum. If they are left untreated this can lead to bowel cancer. Smoking and excess alcohol can increase the risk of the development of polyps. SYMPTOMS OF POLYPS OF THE RECTUM Generally, a polyp of the rectum may not exhibit any obvious symptoms and is found purely by chance. Related symptoms can include: - There may be a mucus that is passed with the stool;
- Larger polyps can bleed and the blood can be mixed in with the stool or be seen on the surface of the stool;
- Sometimes the bowel can become blocked, which in turn can lead to constipation or diarrhoea, bloating, stomach pains and even vomiting.
TREATMENT OF POLYPS OF THE RECTUM Because there is no way of knowing if a benign polyp will turn into a malignant polyp, the recommended treatment is complete removal of the polyp. This is done using a wire loop, called a colonoscope, which is placed around the polyp. An electrical current is passed through the wire and the polyp will fall off. This is usually a painless procedure. More than one treatment may be required for a particularly large polyp. In some circumstances, surgery may be required to remove the polyp. |
