What are the symptoms of bowel polyps?
Many people with bowel polyps do not have any symptoms. If they do, some possible symptoms include:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
What causes bowel polyps?
The exact cause of bowel polyps is not completely understood. However, several factors may increase the risk of developing them, including:
- Having a family history of bowel polyps or bowel cancer
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Certain genetic conditions that can increase the risk of polyps
- Being over the age of 50
How common are bowel polyps?
Bowel polyps are quite common, especially in older adults. It is estimated that about one in four people over the age of 50 may have at least one polyp.
Who is more likely to get bowel polyps?
Some factors make it more likely for someone to develop bowel polyps, including:
- Age over 50
- Family history of bowel polyps or bowel cancer
- Certain genetic conditions
- Less active lifestyle and poor diet
How can I treat bowel polyps?
The treatment for bowel polyps usually involves removing them during a procedure called a colonoscopy. This is a procedure where a doctor uses a camera to look inside the bowel and can remove polyps at the same time. After removal, the polyps are examined to check for cancer.
Powered by pharmacies
With over 1,700 pharmacy partners across the UK, you can get the help you need, wherever you are based.
Our website and mobile app make it easy and convenient to manage your health needs and book services at a pharmacy nearby.
How to prevent bowel polyps?
While not all bowel polyps can be prevented, some lifestyle changes may help lower your risk:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Staying active and exercising regularly
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake
- Getting regular screenings, especially if you are over 50 or have risk factors
How to live with bowel polyps?
For many people, having bowel polyps does not affect their daily life. However, it is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor for any changes or new polyps.
What’s the outlook for bowel polyps?
The outlook for bowel polyps is generally good, especially when they are found and removed early. Regular screenings can catch polyps before they turn into cancer, making it important to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Final thoughts
In summary, bowel polyps are common growths in the bowel that often do not cause symptoms. If you have any concerns about your bowel health, it’s important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
