Colorectal Polyps in Dallas, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat are colorectal polyps?
Colorectal polyps, occasionally called colon polyps, are a common-place medical condition affecting many individuals in Dallas, TX. The label “colorectal” refers to the colon and the rectum. Many health conditions that impact the colon tend to affect the rectum, which is the reason they are often referenced together. A colon polyp is a polyp that presents in either the colon or the rectum. A colon polyp is a mass consisting of a grouping of cells on the lining of your colon or rectum.
Polyps alone are commonly harmless and often don't cause symptoms; however, colorectal polyps should be addressed since they can, over time, grow to be cancerous. To confirm a suspicion of colorectal polyps, schedule at a Digestive Health Associates of Texas location in your community.
What are the causes of colon polyps?
Colon polyps are formed when cells divide or grow more than what is typical. The medical community remains without proof as to why this is the case, however, there are connections and risk factors that are associated with people who present with colorectal polyps.
Some of the risk factors for colon polyps are:
- High fat, low fiber diet (known as the "Common Western Diet")
- Smoking
- Having a personal or family history of colorectal polyps
- Ulcerative colitis
- Genetic predisposition
- High consumption of alcohol
- Type 2 diabetes
- Crohn's disease
- Being over 45 years of age
- Being overweight
Inherited genetic conditions can raise an individual's risk of having colorectal polyps. Those conditions may include but are not limited to:
- MYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Serrated polyposis syndrome
- Gardner’s syndrome
- Lynch syndrome
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
What are the symptoms of colorectal polyps?
Frequently, cases of colon or rectal polyps are not manifested as symptoms. If you are experiencing any symptoms, some of the most common symptoms of colon polyps include:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Bloody stool
- Diarrhea (lasting in excess of seven days)
- Constipation
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain
If you are experiencing any combination of the listed symptoms, are age 45 or above, or have a family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps, please get in touch with Digestive Health Associates of Texas for more information about the importance of routine colon cancer screenings.
What does it mean if a physician identifies polyps during a colonoscopy?
It is not unusual to identify polyps during a colonoscopy, and most commonly, polyps are not cancerous (benign). Polyps identified while undergoing a colonoscopy will often be extracted and assessed for indications of cancer. If your colon polyps are determined to be non-malignant, then your doctor may advise routine colorectal cancer screenings in the future. If your polyp is determined to be malignant (cancerous), you and your GI specialist at Digestive Health Associates of Texas will make a plan with the appropriate next steps.
The main way to treat colorectal polyps is by removing them. During a colonoscopy (or flexible sigmoidoscopy), polyps in your colon and rectum can be excised in a procedure referred to as a polypectomy. In extreme cases, part of or the entirety of your colon or rectum may require removal. Our team will guide you through the steps leading up to and following your colonoscopy with great care!
Colorectal Polyps FAQs
Are colorectal polyps genetic?
Having a familial history of colorectal polyps can elevate your own risk of developing this health concern. Certain variations of polyps can carry a genetic correlation and can be more prevalent among family members. Talk with your GI doctor about your personal and family history of colorectal polyps to assess your risk and determine your frequency of colon cancer testing.
Do colorectal polyps return?
Generally, it is unusual for a colon polyp to grow back after being removed. However, some people may develop new polyps in other parts of the rectum or colon (large intestine). For this reason, it is vital to schedule regular colorectal cancer screenings as recommended by your physician.
Can colorectal polyps be prevented?
You may be unable to prevent polyps from arising, particularly if you carry an elevated risk due to hereditary factors. However, healthy lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of colorectal polyps. These involve consuming a well-balanced diet, limiting the consumption of alcohol, avoiding tobacco use, and getting plenty of exercise. Having periodic colonoscopy screenings starting at age 45 can also help diminish the chance of polyp development.
How long does it take to recover after colon polyp removal?
On average, most patients need around one week to recover after having a polypectomy during a colonoscopy procedure. Our team at Digestive Health Associates of Texas will review aftercare information on what to expect during the recovery period and when you can resume your normal routine.
Get treatment for colon or rectal polyps
Colon polyps can be detected, excised, and tested for cancer at a routine colonoscopy in Dallas, TX. As a physician-led team of gastroenterology specialists, Digestive Health Associates of Texas strives to provide a patient-focused experience. To discover more about colon polyps and how they may be detected and excised, we recommend that you get in touch with our gastroenterology practice today.
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Dr Nayyar is very polite and courteous. He takes the time to listen to your issues/complaints and ensures you understand his treatment plan.
Dr. Eric Hill and his staff are so amazing. Dr. Hill is the one who found my colon cancer and was able to help me through things. That happened in 2020. As of March 2021... I was declared 100% cancer FREE!. Dr. Hill has kept things up in making sure I stay cancer free in that area and takes things very seriously and is very serious about treatments and being proactive to mo itor things and keeping you healthy. He also found the polyps in my dad and has removed them as well. Dr. Hill is the best there is in my book. He takes the time to sit with you and listen to all your concerns. He doesn't make you feel like your on a time limit. Dr. Hill is a very caring and compassionate man. He goes above and beyond in my book. Thank you Dr. Hill. You are totally awesome!!!
Outstanding doctor! Found polyps that were missed by another doctor 2 years prior. Very thorough- really cares about his patients
Absolutely a great experience, Doctor Deepti is incredibly nice and professional. The Digestive Health Center of Allen is an excellent facility with an outstanding staff, which I'm sure is influenced by Doctor Deepti's own personal approach toward her patients. I highly recommend Doctor Deepti Dhavaleshwar for an digestive issues or concerns.
Dr. Durraiswamy is a very professional, yet friendly physician. She has a great sense of humor and I always enjoy my appointments with her. She is a very caring and personal doctor. I would highly recommend her!
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