Polyps

A polyp is a small protrusion of tissue that looks like a ball on the end of a slim stalk and can grow out of the membranes lining various areas of the body. Common sites include the nose, intestines and uterus.

Polyps can grow either singly or in clusters

Most are harmless, although a minority may be malignant. Nasal polyps can sometimes grow to the size of an olive, and can interfere with breathing. ), are generally more prone to nasal polyps. The lining of the sinuses swells, and certain spots grow more vigorously than usual, forming either a single polyp or a collection.

Symptoms of nasal polyps can include: Intestinal polyps commonly develop in the bowel and rectum. are all thought to contribute.

There are two major types of colorectal polyps: adenomas and hyperplastic polyps

Around one in five people have adenomas, to no ill effect. A small percentage of adenomas turn malignant, given sufficient time – particularly the larger ones. if the hyperplastic polyp contains an adenoma.

This variety is known as mixed hyperplastic adenomatous polyp. Most colorectal polyps have no symptoms, but possible symptoms can include: abdominal pain. Polyps can grow in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

They are relatively rare in young women, and more common in older women. The incidence decreases again after , which are non-malignant growths in the muscular walls of the uterus. Symptoms of endometrial polyps can include: (or excessive bleeding) during the period.

Diagnosis can include:

• Nasal polyps – the polyps are usually visible inside the nose
• which involves inserting a specialised instrument into the bowel so the physician can look for polyps

Other techniques include

If needed a hysteroscopy can be performed

This involves the insertion of a specialised instrument into the uterus via the vagina. The hysteroscope is topped with a small camera, which allows the physician to see inside the uterus,and look for polyps. Treatment for polyps can include:

• Nasal polyps – medications such as cortisone
• steroids to hinder growth or surgical removal

If the person has a history of hay fever, then this underlying condition will be treated to help prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps. Colorectal polyps – the polyps are surgically removed. Sometimes, the polyps can be removed during the colonoscopy with a small ‘snare’ or hot forcep.

The polyps should then be tested for cancer

Possible complications of removing polyps include excessive bleeding and damage to the bowel. is generally used to treat endometrial polyps. The cervix (entrance to the uterus) is gently dilated, allowing the insertion of special instruments.

The endometrium and associated polyps are removed

Nasal polyps People with allergies (such as hay fever Nasal polyps can trigger infections, such as sinusitis blocked nostril or nostrils excessive mucus decreased sense of smell headache Colorectal polyps The exact cause is unknown, but diet , lifestyle factors and genetics Hyperplastic polyps are also quite common.

They are usually harmless

However, there is a small risk of cancer blood in the stool clear mucus in the stool diarrhoea or constipation Endometrial polyps menopause. Polyps can be symptomatic of fibroids irregular menstrual cycle spotting between periods menorrhagia Diagnosis methods for polyps Colorectal polyps – the primary diagnostic procedure is colonoscopy barium meal x-rays Endometrial polyps – diagnosis is usually made by ultrasound Treatment for polyps Endometrial polyps – a surgical technique called curettage Where to get help Your GP (doctor) NURSE-ON-CALL (616) 555-0024 , (24 hours, 7 days) Ear, nose and throat specialist Gastroenterologist Gynaecologist.

Key Points

• Common sites include the nose, intestines and uterus
• Symptoms of nasal polyps can include: Intestinal polyps commonly develop in the bowel and rectum
• Most colorectal polyps have no symptoms, but possible symptoms can include: abdominal pain
• They are relatively rare in young women, and more common in older women
• Symptoms of endometrial polyps can include: (or excessive bleeding) during the period