Colon Polyps (Sessile Polyp): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide

Colon Polyps: An Overview

Colon polyps are small growths in the large intestine that often develop without noticeable symptoms, so most people do not realise they have them. While many polyps are harmless, some can grow or change over time, increasing the risk of colon cancer. One type, called a sessile polyp, lies flat against the colon wall, making it harder to detect. Doctors can identify and remove most polyps, including sessile ones, during screening tests, helping protect your digestive health and lower future risks.

What is a Colon Polyp?

Colon polyps can take different forms. Sessile polyps are flat and adhere directly to the colon lining, making them harder to spot during routine checks. Their flat shape sometimes requires more careful removal techniques compared with stalked polyps, but detecting and removing them is important to prevent potential complications.

What Causes Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps can form due to a combination of age, genetics and lifestyle factors. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 50.
• Family history: Having a parent or sibling with colon polyps or colon cancer raises your chances.
• Genetic conditions: Inherited syndromes like FAP or Lynch syndrome significantly increase polyp risk.
• Lifestyle factors: A diet high in processed or fatty foods, lack of exercise, smoking and heavy alcohol use can contribute to polyp formation.
• Chronic inflammation: Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increase the likelihood of developing polyps.
• Low-fibre diet: Not eating enough fibre can affect bowel health and may contribute to polyp growth.

What Are The Symptoms of Colon Polyps?

Most colon polyps do not cause symptoms and are often discovered during routine screening. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Rectal bleeding: Bright red or dark blood from the rectum.
• Blood in the stool: Stools may look reddish, dark or tar-like.
• Changes in bowel habits: Diarrhoea, constipation or altered stool patterns that persist.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort: Cramping or bloating, especially with larger polyps.
• Iron-deficiency anaemia: Caused by slow, long-term bleeding from a polyp.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue: May occur if bleeding or inflammation is significant.
• Narrow stools: A possible sign of a larger polyp affecting the stool passage.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Colon Polyps?

Doctors diagnose colon polyps using screening tests that look for hidden blood, abnormal cells or direct changes in the colon.

• Stool tests: Your doctor may ask for a stool sample to check for occult blood or DNA changes associated with polyps. These tests help identify if further examination is needed.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy allows the doctor to view the entire colon using a thin tube with a camera. Any polyps found can often be removed during the procedure and sent to a lab for analysis.
• Other imaging tests: Tests like CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) or flexible sigmoidoscopy may also be used, but colonoscopy remains the most accurate and preferred method for detecting and removing polyps.

How are Colon Polyps Treated?

Doctors treat colon polyps by removing them to prevent them from turning into more serious issues. Sessile polyps, which lie flat against the colon wall, often require more advanced techniques for complete removal.

1. Polypectomy During Colonoscopy

This is the most common treatment for colon polyps.

• The doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera.
• Small polyps are removed with forceps.
• Small to medium polyps are cut off using a wire loop (snare).
• Heat (cautery) is applied after removal to stop bleeding.

2. Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

This technique is used for larger sessile polyps.

• The doctor injects fluid under the polyp to lift it from the colon wall.
• The polyp is removed in one piece or several smaller pieces.
• The area is checked carefully to ensure no tissue remains.

3. Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)

This is used for very large or complex polyps.

• Fluid is injected deeper under the lesion to create space.
• A special knife is used to make precise cuts around the polyp.
• The polyp is removed as a single piece when possible.

4. Surgery for Big or Hard-to-Reach Polyps

Surgery is recommended when endoscopic methods cannot remove the polyp safely.

• Surgeons may use laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques through small cuts in the abdomen.
• In rare cases, if the polyp is cancerous or extremely large, part or all of the colon and rectum may need to be removed.

Preventing Colon Polyps

You can lower your risk of developing colon polyps by making a few healthy lifestyle and dietary changes.

1. Healthy Lifestyle

• Exercise regularly to support good digestion.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce inflammation and hormone-related risks.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.

2. Dietary Changes

• Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, to support bowel regularity and reduce inflammation.
• Cut down on red and processed meats to avoid harmful preservatives.
• Drink enough water (around 6-8 glasses a day) to help your body flush out waste and keep digestion smooth.

3. Supplements and Vitamins

• Calcium and vitamin D may support healthy cell growth.
• Low-dose aspirin may help reduce inflammation in some people (only if recommended by a doctor).

Conclusion

Colon polyps often develop silently, making regular screening essential for preventing colon cancer. Most polyps, including sessile types, can be safely removed if detected early. Paying attention to symptoms such as bleeding or persistent bowel changes, and understanding your personal risk factors, helps you act proactively. By following screening recommendations, maintaining healthy habits and staying informed, you can protect your colon health. Early detection and timely removal of polyps empower you to take control of your digestive health and overall well-being.