Colon Polyps — Why They Matter & Treatment in Lucknow
Colon polyps are small growths on the lining of the large bowel. The great majority are harmless — but some types, given enough years, can slowly turn into colon cancer. This is exactly why finding and removing polyps matters: it is one of the few ways we can actually prevent a cancer from ever developing.
Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma advises patients in Lucknow on colon polyps, including when colonoscopy and polyp removal are recommended.
What are colon polyps?
A polyp is a small projection from the bowel lining. Some are simple and never become dangerous; others — particularly 'adenomatous' polyps — are the type that can, over many years, progress to cancer. Because this change is slow and silent, removing polyps during a colonoscopy interrupts the process before cancer can form.
Most polyps cause no symptoms and are found during a colonoscopy done for screening or for another reason.
Symptoms to watch for
- Usually none — most polyps are silent and found at colonoscopy
- Occasionally blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Rarely, a change in bowel habit or mucus with larger polyps
Causes & risk factors
- Increasing age (more common over 50)
- A family history of polyps or colon cancer
- Diet high in red and processed meat and low in fibre
- Obesity, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle
- Certain inherited polyp syndromes
How it is diagnosed
- Colonoscopy — both finds and removes polyps in the same procedure
- Histopathology of removed polyps to determine the type and any risk
- CT colonography in selected situations
How colon polyps are treated
Most polyps are removed painlessly during the colonoscopy itself (polypectomy), without any cut. The removed polyp is examined under the microscope to determine its type and whether it carried any risk, which guides when your next colonoscopy should be.
Very large or complex polyps occasionally need a more advanced endoscopic technique or, rarely, surgery. Dr Verma advises on the right approach and the appropriate interval for surveillance based on your polyps and risk.
When to see a GI surgeon
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- A family history of colon polyps or colon cancer — discuss screening
- Being due for colon cancer screening, especially over age 45–50
Colon Polyps: common questions
Do colon polyps turn into cancer?
Most polyps never become cancerous, but certain types can slowly progress to colon cancer over many years. Removing polyps during colonoscopy interrupts this process — which is why polyp removal is one of the most effective ways to prevent colon cancer.
Is removing a colon polyp painful?
No. Polyps are removed during the colonoscopy itself, painlessly and without any external cut, usually under sedation. The removed polyp is then examined to determine its type and guide your follow-up.
Concerned about colon polyps?
Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma offers clear assessment and expert treatment. Book a consultation for personalised advice.