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Polyps

Polyps refer to tissue growths that usually appear as tiny, flat bumps or small stalks resembling mushrooms. They are generally harmless, though some can develop into cancer.

While polyps most commonly occur in the uterus and colon, they can also form in other areas, such as the cervix, ear canal, stomach, bladder, throat, and nose. Despite being noncancerous, they may eventually turn cancerous because of abnormal cell growth.

Causes

Polyps often result from abnormal cell growth, but no clear causes are associated with the problem.

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Symptoms

Polyps generally do not cause symptoms. However, if they do occur, these symptoms may vary depending on their type and location in the body.

  • Ear canal polyps: Develop in the ear canal and may be associated with a cholesteatoma, which can lead to hearing loss and foul-smelling ear discharge.
  • Cervical polyps: Occur on the cervix and are often asymptomatic but can result in abnormal vaginal discharge and bleeding.
  • Colorectal polyps: Form on the colon or rectum lining. While adenomatous polyps (adenomas) can develop into bowel cancer, hyperplastic polyps usually do not, and hamartomatous polyps could be linked to certain genetic disorders. They might lead to bloody stool, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation.
  • Nasal polyps: Form inside the sinuses and nose and may worsen with allergies or sinusitis. Nasal polyps may cause persistent cold symptoms, nasal pain, loss of smell, and sinus infections.
  • Throat polyps: Appear on the vocal cords and are benign. These polyps may result from voice overuse and cause symptoms like a hoarse or breathy voice, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and recurrent throat clearing.
  • Endometrial (uterine) polyps: Develop in the uterine lining and may sometimes become cancerous. Symptoms may include heavy periods, bleeding between periods or after sex, and difficulty conceiving.
  • Bladder polyps: Grow in the bladder and may cause symptoms like blood in the urine as well as frequent and painful urination.
  • Gastric (stomach) polyps: Develop in the stomach and are categorized into hyperplastic, adenomatous, and fundic gland polyps. Though asymptomatic, they may cause nausea, vomiting, pain, and gastrointestinal tract bleeding.
  • Gallbladder polyps: Occur in the gallbladder and are usually benign but rarely cancerous. They are also asymptomatic.
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Diagnosis

To diagnose polyps, the healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination, inquire about your symptoms, and review your medical history. If polyps are suspected, imaging tests, such as ultrasound, X-rays, or a CT scan, may be recommended to examine the affected region. These tests can also be used to confirm the presence and size of a polyp.

The diagnostic process varies based on where the polyps are located. However, the common procedures are:

  • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or endoscopy: Used to obtain polyps samples in the stomach and small intestine.
  • Biopsy: Used in easily accessible areas to take a sample, which will be examined under a microscope.
  • Colonoscopy: Used to check and remove polyps samples in the colon.
  • Mirror exam: A mirror may be used to inspect the vocal cords for throat polyps.
  • Nasal endoscopy: Recommended for evaluating polyps in the nasal cavity.

Sometimes, the doctor may conduct a biopsy to determine if the polyp is cancerous.

Treatment

Polyps treatment often varies based on their type and location. However, doctors mostly recommend removing them.

Some polyps may not need treatment, especially if they are harmless. For instance, throat polyps often resolve independently with voice therapy and rest. Even so, the doctor may opt to surgically remove certain polyps to prevent potential cancer development in the future.

Apart from type and location, treatment options for polyps are also determined by factors such as cancer risk associated with the polyps and the number.

Colorectal polyps are removed during a colonoscopy, as it is difficult to visually determine if they may become cancerous. A colonoscopy involves using a thin, camera-equipped tube to examine the rectum and large intestine. Regular colonoscopies are recommended to detect and remove polyps early before developing into cancer.

On the other hand, drugs like progestin or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists may be prescribed for those with hormone-related polyps such as uterine and cervical polyps. These medications instruct the body to produce more hormones to help reduce or shrink polyps.

For nasal polyps, nasal steroids or corticosteroids can be an effective option.

Before considering surgical removal of the polyps, doctors often suggest the least invasive treatments first.

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Prevention

Preventing polyps isn’t always possible. However, being aware of and minimizing certain risk factors might help reduce the likelihood of developing some polyps. These include colon polyps, which can lower the possibility of colorectal cancer.

Here are some preventive measures to consider:

  • Routine screening. Consult your doctor about scheduling regular colonoscopies.
  • Healthy diet. Follow a nutrient-rich diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
  • Limit alcohol intake.
  • Avoid using tobacco and its products.
  • Exercise often to ensure and maintain a healthy weight.

If you have a family history of polyps, discuss further preventive steps with your doctor so as to minimize your risk.