Polyps are described as small, flat, mushroom-like abnormal tissue growths that are commonly half-inch wide and usually found in the colon. Here at the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA, Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Joseph Naim can assess the nature of your colon polyps via colonoscopy to figure out the appropriate next steps to keep you healthy.
What are Colon Polyps?
Polyps are generally benign, but since they’re abnormalities, they may turn malignant. A doctor can make an accurate determination of this through a biopsy, in which a small tissue sample from the polyp will be tested for cancerous cells. The colon polyp, as its name suggests, is found on the lining of the colon. Even if considered harmless, there are instances wherein it may develop into full-blown colon cancer. Additionally, if detected at its later stages, it can be fatal.
Several risk factors can likewise contribute to the potential growth of colon polyps. These risk factors increase the possibility of colon polyps:
- A high fat, low fiber diet
- People over 50 years are more susceptible
- Family history of polyps and cancer of the colon
- Regular alcohol and tobacco use
- Inflammation disorders of the intestines like Crohn’s disease
- Obesity
- Lack of movement or exercise
- Mismanaged type 2 diabetes
- Being of African-American descent
Colon Polyps Diagnosis
There are varied screening tests that can be done by your gastroenterologist in Encino, CA, to determine the presence of polyps and even remove them if necessary. These are:
- Colonoscopy: This is performed using a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera at the other end to give a detailed view of inside the colon. This procedure allows doctors to remove colon polyps as they go along and send it out for testing.
- CT Colonography: Also known as virtual colonoscopy, it relies on a computer and X-rays to create a picture of the internal colon without going into it.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: In this procedure, a thin tube equipped with a light is used to probe the lower colon for the presence of polyps and remove it in the same procedure.
- Lower Gastrointestinal Series: This is an X-ray examination of the colon with the help of barium.
- Stool Test: Once blood is detected in the stool, you will be required to undergo colonoscopy.
It’s also very crucial to point out that there’s a chance that you can develop more colon polyps later on so your doctor would have to recommend future screening tests as a precaution.
Worried About Your Colon Health? We Can Help.
Schedule a colonoscopy with Dr. Mordo Suchov or Dr. Alan Joseph Naim here at the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA, by dialing (818) 905-1567.