Colon polyps

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of colon polyps? icon plus

  Colon polyps don't often cause symptoms. If they do, these might include:

  • tummy pain
  • rectal bleeding
  • change in faeces colour
  • change in bowel habits

  In other cases, colon polyps often show up during a colonoscopy or bowel examination. Colon polyps found early can be removed safely and completely. So it's important to have regular colon screenings.

• How are colon polyps diagnosed? icon plus

  Your consultant gastroenterologist will most likely recommend certain tests to find out if you have a colon polyp(s). These might include:

  • Colonoscopy. A test to look inside your colon using a flexible tube with a camera on the end. If a polyp is found, it can be removed immediately.
  • Virtual colonoscopy. A CT scan to view your colon. If a polyp is found, a colonoscopy can be carried out to remove it.
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy. A rectal test to look inside your colon using a sigmoidoscope.

  If a polyp is found, it can be removed by passing a thin hooking instrument down the sigmoidoscope.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  In most cases, if colon polyps are found, they can be removed during your diagnostic screening. In some cases, a sample of the polyp may be sent away to test it for cancer. Your consultant gastroenterologist will discuss the results of this test at a later date. If you require further treatment, your consultant will explain this to you.