The Proof is in the Polyps: What does your doctor look for during a colonoscopy?
Posted By Author on September 26, 2024
A millennial, boomer, and Gen X-er walk into a Charleston gastroenterology office for a colonoscopy…
While these three generations may seem like they don’t belong together, let alone walking into a colonoscopy appointment, they all have one aspect in common – they are all at risk for developing colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer continues to rise in young adults, spanning across generations to become the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Despite the ease of scheduling and undergoing a colonoscopy, many never make the appointment due to a lack of information or misinformation on the procedure.
So, what exactly is your GI doctor looking for during a colonoscopy? Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Colon Polyp?
A colon polyp is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the rectum or large intestine, also known as the colon. They can vary in shape and size and become more common as you age.
You are at a higher risk of developing colon or rectal polyps if you are 50 years and older, with as many as 15% to 40% of adults developing the tissue growths.
Shapes and Types of Polyps
Polyps can grow in two different shapes: flat (sessile) and with a stalk (pedunculated). Sessile polyps lie flat against the colon’s lining, making them more difficult to detect during a routine colonoscopy due to their shape.
The shape of pedunculated polyps is similar in shape to a mushroom. They attach themselves to the surface of the colon’s lining by a long, thin stalk. Due to their shape, they are more easily detected.
There are two primary types of polyps that can develop: non-neoplastic (or hyperplastic) and neoplastic polyps.
Hyperplastic polyps in the colon are small and considered an incredibly low risk for turning cancerous. Neoplastic polyps, however, are precancerous.
The two most common types of neoplastic polyps are villous adenomas and a serrated colon polyp.
Villous Adenomas are typically sessile in shape and carry a high risk of turning cancerous. Serrated colon polyps, on the other hand, may become cancerous, but their size and location within the colon will be a deciding factor.
Keep in mind that colon polyps are not often accompanied by symptoms, so it’s entirely possible to not realize you have it until it may be too late. Schedule a colonoscopy near you to remove any precancerous polyps and prevent the development of colon cancer.
What Happens if a Colon Polyp is Found During Your Colonoscopy?
One of the major fears surrounding a colonoscopy lies in the understanding of the procedure – or lack thereof.
During a colonoscopy at our Charleston gastroenterology clinic, a long, thin tube with a tiny camera attached will be inserted through the anus and into the rectum and colon. The tiny camera will allow your GI doctors to search for potentially precancerous polyps, as well as remove and biopsy them during the procedure.
Those polyps are then sent to a pathologist to determine if they are precancerous in nature. Your gastroenterologist will guide you on the next steps, depending on the results.
Heavy Bleeding After Colon Polyp Removal – Is that Normal?
A colonoscopy is one of the most common endoscopic procedures, with a relatively low risk for serious complications.
Depending on whether a biopsy was done, or a polyp was removed, it is common to have streaks of blood in your stool for a few days after the procedure. Heavy bleeding can occur after colon polyp removal, delaying until several weeks after the test.
Heavy bleeding is not unheard of, but it isn’t a common complication. If you experience abnormal bleeding after your colonoscopy, consult with one of our GI doctors near you immediately.
Am I at Risk for Colon Polyps and Colorectal Cancer?
There are several factors that might make you more likely to develop colon polyps or cancer. These factors include:
Age: The likelihood of developing colon polyps increases for those 50 or older
Inflammatory GI conditions: Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or similar GI conditions could increase your risk of colon cancer
Family history: You are more likely to get colon polyps or cancer if a family member or multiple members of your family have them. Having a genetic predisposition could mean scheduling an earlier colonoscopy appointment than normal.
Smoking and excess alcohol use
Obesity
Genetics can play a pivotal role in your GI health. While they present a risk factor, other genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome, may require earlier and more frequent follow-up appointments with our GI doctors in Charleston, SC.
If family medical history is a concern, talk to our doctors to determine when the right time is for you to schedule a colonoscopy.
Stay on the Safe Side of Colon Cancer Statistics with Charleston GI
Not every colon polyp your doctor comes across is cancerous, but that doesn’t make them any less important. Colorectal cancer is continuing to grow in severity for all age groups, whether you are venturing into life after college or facing the excitement of retirement.
Don’t wait to become just another statistic! We have four convenient Charleston, SC area locations to choose from, in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Carnes Crossroads.
