Colorectal Polyps
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.
What are colorectal polyps?
Colorectal polyps are small growths of tissue in the lining of the colon and rectum. Most polyps are usually benign (not cancer). Certain types of polyps, called adenomatous polyps, may turn into cancer.
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What increases my risk for colorectal polyps?
The exact cause of colorectal polyps is unknown. The following may increase your risk:
- Older age
- Foods high in fat and low in fiber
- Family history of polyps
- Intestinal diseases, such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis
- Smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol
- Lack of physical activity, such as exercise
- Obesity
What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal polyps?
- Blood in your bowel movement or bleeding from the rectum
- Change in bowel movement habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
What do I need to know about colorectal polyp screening and diagnosis?
Screening means you are checked for polyps that may be cancer, even if you do not have signs or symptoms. Screening is recommended starting at age 50 and continuing to age 75 if you are at average risk. Your healthcare provider may suggest screening starting at age 45. Screening may start before you are 45 or continue after you are 75 if your risk is high. Your provider will tell you how often to get screened. Timing depends on the type of screening and if polyps are found. Timing also depends on your age and if you are at increased risk for cancer. Screening may be recommended every 1, 2, 5, or 10 years. Your healthcare provider will need to test polyps to find out if they are cancer. Any of the following may be used to find polyps:
- A digital rectal exam means your provider will use a finger to check for polyps.
- A barium enema is an x-ray of the colon. A tube is put into your anus, and a liquid called barium is put through the tube. Barium is used so that healthcare providers can see your colon better on the x-ray film.
- A virtual colonoscopy is a CT scan that takes pictures of the inside of your colon and rectum. A small, flexible tube is put into your rectum and air or carbon dioxide (gas) is used to expand your colon. This lets healthcare providers clearly see your colon and any polyps on a monitor.
- Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are procedures to help your provider see the inside of your colon. He or she will use a flexible tube with a small light and camera on the end. During a sigmoidoscopy, your provider will only look at rectum and lower colon. During a colonoscopy, he or she will look at the full length of your colon. A small amount of tissue may be removed from your colon for tests.
How are colorectal polyps treated?
Small, benign polyps may not need treatment. Your healthcare provider will check the polyp over time to make sure it is not changing. Polyps that are cancer may be removed with one of the following:
- A polypectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove a polyp during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Your healthcare provider may need to remove the polyp with a laparoscope. Laparoscopy is done by inserting a small, flexible scope into incisions made on your abdomen.
- Surgery may be needed to remove large or deep polyps that cannot be removed in a polypectomy. Tissues or lymph nodes near a polyp may also be removed. This helps stop cancer from spreading.
What can I do to lower my risk for colorectal polyps?
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruit, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meat, and fish. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your healthcare provider what a healthy weight is for you. Ask him or her to help with a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
- Exercise as directed. Begin to exercise slowly and do more as you get stronger. Talk with your healthcare provider before you start an exercise program.
- Limit alcohol. Your risk for polyps increases the more you drink.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars increase your risk for polyps. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Where can I find more information?
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
2 Information Way
Bethesda , MD 20892-3570
Phone: 1- 800 - 891-5389
Web Address: www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have sudden shortness of breath.
- You have a fast heart rate, fast breathing, or are too dizzy to stand up.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You have severe abdominal pain.
- You see blood in your bowel movement.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have a fever.
- You have chills, a cough, or feel weak and achy.
- You have abdominal pain that does not go away or gets worse after you take medicine.
- Your abdomen is swollen.
- You are losing weight without trying.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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