Rectal Polyps

What are Rectal Polyps?

Rectal polyps are small clumps of cells that develop in the inner lining of the rectum. They vary in size, shape, and type, and while most are noncancerous, some may carry the potential to become malignant. Polyps are commonly found during routine colonoscopies and can be safely removed to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Symptoms of Rectal Polyps

Many rectal polyps do not cause symptoms, but when they do, common signs include:

• Rectal bleeding (blood in stool or on toilet paper)
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Mucus in stool
• Abdominal discomfort or cramping
• A feeling of incomplete bowel movements

Common Causes of Rectal Polyps

The exact cause of polyp formation is not fully understood, but several risk factors may contribute to their development, including:

• Age: More common in individuals over 50
• Family history: A genetic predisposition increases risk
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation can lead to polyp formation
• Diet high in fat and low in fiber: Poor eating habits may contribute
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle: Increased risk due to metabolic changes
• Smoking and alcohol consumption: Linked to an elevated risk of colorectal polyps and cancer

When to Seek Medical Help?

You should consult a specialist if you experience:

• Persistent rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Unexplained changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Chronic abdominal pain or bloating

Our Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Detailed Symptom Review:

• Assessing bleeding patterns, stool changes, and digestive discomfort
• Identifying risk factors such as personal or family history of colorectal disease

Medical History Evaluation:

• Reviewing lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and alcohol use
• Evaluating history of gastrointestinal conditions, including IBD or previous polyps

Advanced Diagnostic Tests:

To detect and evaluate rectal polyps, we use:

• Colonoscopy: The gold standard for detecting and removing polyps
• Sigmoidoscopy: A less invasive alternative for examining the rectum and lower colon
• Stool tests (FOBT, FIT, or Cologuard): To detect hidden blood or DNA changes linked to polyps
• CT colonography (Virtual colonoscopy): A non-invasive imaging option for polyp detection

Personalized Treatment Plans For You

Medications:

• Aspirin or NSAIDs: May help reduce polyp formation in high-risk individuals
• Dietary supplements: Calcium and vitamin D may lower polyp recurrence risk

Lifestyle Modifications:

• High-fiber diet: Including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support gut health
• Regular exercise: Helps maintain a healthy metabolism and reduce polyp risk
• Weight management: Reduces risk factors associated with colorectal polyps
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol: To lower the chances of polyp development and progression

Surgical Interventions:

• Polypectomy (During Colonoscopy): Minimally invasive removal of polyps
• Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): For larger or complex polyps
• Surgical removal (Colectomy): In rare cases of high-risk polyps or genetic syndromes