Signs You May Have Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are small blocks of cells that form in a person’s colon. These colon polyps could be completely harmless or could be a sign you may have colon cancer. Colon polyps are likely to start appearing in a person’s colon if they are black, over the age of 40 and obese, although anyone can develop them.

Small colon polyps are difficult to detect and are usually found after a doctor has performed an examination of your bowels. Large colon polyps, though, can provide more symptoms for sufferers.

Symptoms of Colon Polyps:

• Rectal bleeding: if you find bright red blood on your toilet paper, this could be an indication that you have colon polyps. Still, rectal bleeding could also just mean you have hemorrhoids. Call your doctor if the bleeding is consistent.
• Blood in stool: stool can have red streaks or appear black if there are colon polyps in your system. Anti-diarrhea medications can also cause feces to turn black.
• Constipation or diarrhea: large colon polyps can lead a person’s normal bathroom habits to change.
• Pain or obstruction: cramps, abdominal pain and vomiting could be signs of large colon polyps.    

You are at risk of developing colon polyps if you are a male who is 40 and over and consume excessive amounts of alcohol and cigarettes. A low-fiber diet can also lead to colon polyps because high-fiber foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) have enough bulk to push out excess waste and toxins from your system.

If you have a family history, regular screenings are essential to find small and large colon polyps. Causes for the polyps can vary, but not all colon polyps are cancerous. There are different types of colon polyps (small and mushroom-shaped or large and flat); the larger a polyp is, the more likely it is cancerous. The colon makes up the upper 4 to 6 feet of the large intestine and its job is to absorb water and other nutrients from the contents that go through the colon. The health of the colon is vital to keep the rest of your body healthy. Visit your doctor if you suspect you have colon polyps.