Polyps

Polyps are small clumps of abnormal tissue that grow within your body.  These clumps can occur inside your:

·      Colon

·      Uterus

·      Throat

·      Bladder

·      Cervix

·      Ear canal

·      nasal passages

·      Stomach

While most polyps are noncancerous, some may develop into cancer over time.

What Causes Polyps?

Polyps result from the abnormal growth of cells, with the cause often remaining unclear. Having certain genetic changes or a family history of syndromes caused by genetic factors may increase your likelihood of developing certain types of polyps.

What are the Symptoms of Polyps?

Most polyps do not cause any symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, as polyps grow, they can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

·      Cervical polyps– Normally have no symptoms. However, they might cause irregular bleeding or discharge.

·      Ear canal polyps– Cause red discharge from the ear and loss of hearing.

·      Nasal polyps– Can cause symptoms such as headaches, persistent cold, loss of smell, or nose pain.

·      Colorectal polyps– cause abdominal pain, blood in the stool, diarrhea, or constipation.

·      Uterine polyps– Cause irregular menstrual bleeding and infertility.

·      Stomach polyps– Cause pain, soreness, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding.

·      Bladder polyps– This can cause frequent, painful urination and blood in the urine.

·      Throat polyps – Can cause a breathy and harsh voice that develops over days or weeks.

How are Polyps Treated?

Polyps can be treated through a variety of methods, including surgical removal of polyps. However, treatment depends on the type and location of the polyps.

Some polyps may go away with rest and voice therapy like throat polyps. Others may be surgically removed as a precaution against potential cancer development. Factors affecting treatment include:

• Number of polyps
• Likelihood of cancerous growth
• Location and size

For colorectal polyps, removal typically occurs during a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is a procedure where a camera-equipped tube examines the large intestine and rectum. 

Hormone-related polyps like uterine and cervical polyps, may be treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and progestin to regulate hormone levels and reduce polyp size.

Nasal polyps may be treated with corticosteroids or nasal steroids.

Can Polyps Turn into Cancer?

While most polyps are not cancerous, some can develop into cancer over time. The risk of a polyp turning into cancer depends on a variety of factors, including the size, type, and location of the polyp. 

In general, the larger the polyp, the greater the risk of cancer. Adenomatous polyps, which are the most common type of polyp, have the highest risk of developing into cancer.

Risk Factors for Polyps

Several factors can increase the risk of developing polyps, including:

• Age: The chance of getting polyps increases with age, with the majority of polyps identified in adults over 50.
• Family history: People with a family history of polyps or colon cancer are at increased risk of developing polyps.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease are at increased risk of developing polyps.
• Diet: A diet high in fat and low in fiber may increase the risk of developing polyps.

Can Polyps be Prevented?

While there is no surefire way to prevent polyps, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing polyps, including:

• Regular screening 
• Healthy diet
• Exercise
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol

Polyps are abnormal growths that can occur in various parts of the body, including the colon. While most are harmless, some can develop into cancer over time. If you have any concerns about polyps, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider.