Polyps are abnormal growths that start in the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Some polyps are flat while others have a stalk. Colorectal polyps are commonly found during standard screening exams of the colon (large intestine) and rectum (the bottom section of your colon) via colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
Colorectal polyps can grow in any part of the colon. Most often, they grow in the left side of the colon and in the rectum. While the majority of polyps will not become cancer, certain types may be precancerous. Having polyps removed reduces a person’s future risk for colorectal cancer.
Symptoms
Most colorectal polyps do not cause any symptoms unless they are large. That is why screening for polyps and cancer is so important. While uncommon, polyps can cause these symptoms:
- Blood in the stool
- Excess mucus
- A change in bowel habits (such as frequency)
- Abdominal pain.
