Author: Dr. Tara Martinez

Preventative Eating: Colon Cancer

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Preventative Eating: Colon Cancer

Preventative Eating: Colon Cancer

We’re all familiar with the age-old adage, “You are what you eat”.  It’s something our elders would tell us in an effort to ply us with fibrous vegetables rather than the easygoing processed junk that would’ve sated our childhood tastes.  

As adults ourselves now, it is important to not only remember this adage, but also to expand our education of nutrition in order to ward off the increasing potential for complications as we age.  

There is no simple cause of cancer – only carcinogenic elements that we have identified through scientific research and can alert others to avoid. Proper nutrition and diet are important in helping to prevent many diseases, including colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer, which affects 6% of Americans, is one that directly affects the digestive system.  As such, it can be directly affected by how we treat our digestive systems.

 

The Link Between Dietary Fat and Colorectal Cancer:

Unfortunately, dietary fat may be one of the greatest culprits connected to the colorectal cancer-causing process.  High consumption of fat increases the amount of substances called bile acids that are released into the digestive tract to help break down the fats. When bile acids get through to the colon, they may be converted to secondary bile acids, which have the potential to promote tumor growth, especially of the cells that line the colon.

“How could this be, though?  Human beings have been consuming fat in various forms throughout the millennia – Some would say it has helped us evolve and survive!”   Absolutely. And throughout history, peoples’ diets have been expanded and refined to complement the intake of fat. For example with the successful Mediterranean diet, fat consumption is balanced out through consumption of red wine and vinegars, which have been shown to aid the body in the breakdown of fats as a sort of pre-emptor to bile acids, so as not to put so much strain on the digestive system with the consumption of a heavy meal.  

In fact, when it comes to wine, it’s best to choose red.  New research suggests a chemical from the extracts in red grapes and red wine might help the body burn fat cells.

 

Antioxidants Vs. Free Radicals:

Another key warrior in the fight against colorectal cancer is the powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants operate by bolstering the body’s defenses against free radicals, which are known to contribute to the formation of cancer.

 

Fiber – Move along, toxins:

Thirdly, as any physician would recommend, you must retain an adequate source of fiber in your diet, each and every day.  Fiber is easy to find in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole-grain cereals and breads, and beyond. Nature provides wonderful foods such as celery and apples, which provide us with vitamins, minerals, and plenty of fiber.  

Fiber intake is known to improve health by moving the body’s waste through the digestive tract faster.   In terms of cancer prevention, this may give those potentially toxic substances less of a window of time to come into contact with your intestinal cells. It is also believed that some types of fiber help detoxify potential cancer-causing substances as well as prevent these substances from being absorbed by the cells of the intestines.

 

Managing Hemorrhoids

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Hemorrhoids treatment

 

Struggling with hemorrhoid pain and discomfort? You aren’t alone. By the age of 50, more than half of all adults will have experienced hemorrhoids at least once. The good news is that this condition is almost never dangerous. And with a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies, and medical attention, symptoms can usually be reduced or eliminated in a timely fashion. Read on for more information on hemorrhoids and how they can be managed:

 

What Exactly Are Hemorrhoids?

Defined simply, hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in or around the anus. In practical terms, this condition tends to manifest itself in pain, itching, bleeding, or discomfort. This condition is usually easy to diagnose and equally easy to treat, however — so don’t delay seeking treatment if you think you might be suffering from this issue!

 

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

The exact cause of hemorrhoids remains unknown — though doctors can clearly point to a number of risk factors that influence whether or not an individual might develop this problem. Straining bowel movements, for example, can increase the pressure on vessels in the anal area and thereby create a heightened risk for hemorrhoids. Sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time, experiencing chronic diarrhea or constipation, being overweight or pregnant, and having anal intercourse are all considered risk factors as well, for similar reasons. In most cases, however, no one cause is responsible: rather, this condition tends to emerge in the convergence of various risk factors and a bit of bad luck.

 

How Can I Reduce Pain from My Condition?

Here is a quick overview of a few of the most common home remedies for hemorrhoid pain.

 

  1. Taking warm baths and/or washing up with warm water.

 

  1. Using over-the-counter pain relieving wipes and/or simply dampening toilet paper before using it.

 

  1. Applying ice directly to the pain.

 

  1. Taking non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs such aspirin, ibuprofen, or diclofenac.

 

  1. Not “holding it,” and/or using a short stool when moving your bowels.

 

  1. Applying an over-the-counter cream or medication for hemorrhoids.

 

What Hemorrhoid-Related Complications Should I Be Aware of?

In the vast majority of cases, hemorrhoids are relatively harmless and only mildly bothersome. In some cases, they may become strangulated or thrombosed — conditions which are painful but not exactly medically threatening. Regardless, complex or non-responsive hemorrhoid problems generally require medical treatment in order to soothe the patient’s pain and ensure that infection does not occur.

 

What Medical Intervention Options Exist for Hemorrhoids?

If your hemorrhoids are painful, medically complicated, or non-responsive to home treatments, then you may wish to discuss medical intervention with your proctologist. Traditional surgery, rubber band ligation, coagulation therapy, and sclerotherapy are just a few of the options at your disposal.

 

Can Hemorrhoids be a Sign of Anal and/or Colorectal Cancer?

As serious as the pain and discomfort from hemorrhoids may sometimes feel, you will be relieved to know that this condition is not a warning sign of serious conditions such as anal cancer. However, it is worth pointing out that many symptoms of anal and colorectal cancers are similar to the symptoms of hemorrhoids. This is why frequent medical checkups (especially when you are suffering pain or abnormal symptoms) are so important.

 

What Type of Doctor Treats Hemorrhoid Problems?

If you are experiencing mild hemorrhoid symptoms, your general practitioner can probably recommend simple over-the-counter treatments and other home remedies to reduce your symptoms. More complicated cases may require the assistance of a specialist such as a proctologist, however. If you are looking for specialized or intensive hemorrhoid treatment in the Long Island area, we encourage you to contact us here at Surgical Specialists of Long Island to learn more about your options.

Anal Cancer Overview

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Like many forms of cancer, anal cancer causes few to no symptoms in its earliest stages. However, like virtually every disease out there, anal cancer can be treated most easily and effectively when it is detected in its earliest stages. And that is precisely why patient education is so crucial. Though professional medical consultations are irreplaceable (especially for anyone who suspects that they may be ill), the following question and answer overview of this common form of cancer is worth reviewing:

 

What are the Common Causes of Anal Cancer?

The overwhelming majority (roughly 90%, to be exact) of anal cancer cases are caused by human papillomavirus infections. And this means that avoid unprotected anal sex (and practicing safe sex in general) is one of the most effective ways of protecting yourself against this disease. Receiving an HPV vaccination, such as Gardasil, is also a highly recommendable option.

 

However, it would be inaccurate to portray anal cancer as a sexually transmitted disease. Though an anal HPV infection is usually a prerequisite for this condition, this is not always the case — and, moreover, the vast majority of HPV infections do not progress to a cancerous stage. Other risk factors, such as advanced age, cigarette smoking, lowered immunity, genetic predisposition toward cancer, and other anal health conditions also come into play.

 

What Symptoms Could Signal Anal Cancer?

Pain, pressure, bleeding, itching, and/or a noticeable lump in the anal region are all common symptoms of this disease. However, these symptoms can all potentially be signs of other health conditions as well. As a general rule, if you notice any such pain or discomfort, you should seek medical attention sooner rather than later in order to prevent or treat any serious issues.

 

It is worth noting that many other symptom-causing anal health issues, such as anal fistulas, can also increase your risk for developing anal cancer — a fact which highlights the importance of getting any painful or abnormal symptom checked out in a timely manner.

 

How is Anal Cancer Detected?

If you are considered to be a high risk case, then your doctor may recommend that you receive an anal pap (the anal counterpart of the common cervical cancer screening process) in order to detect cancer/precancer in a timely fashion.

 

If you do not participate in these regular screenings, then your condition might be noticed during a regular checkup, during the process of a colonoscopy, or when you are being checked due to symptoms you experience. X-Rays, CAT scans, MRI screening, PET scans, and biopsies are a few common tools used to detect anal cancer and/or to learn more about your condition.

 

What are my Treatment Options after Receiving an Anal Cancer Diagnosis?

Doctors will decide upon an individualized plan of treatment depending on what kind of anal cancer you have, what stage the cancer has progressed to, and other personal factors. In the vast majority of cases, however, your treatment plan will consist of some combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or surgery.

 

What Will My Life Be Like After Treatment?

Once your cancer has been successfully treated, you will likely be able to make a gradual return to enjoying many of the aspects of life that you had to put on hold while in treatment. (Which, depending on your condition, may be as broad as work, study, hobbies, exercise, sex, etc.) However, it is critically important that you work with your healthcare providers to develop a plan for continuing care. Recurrence is always a possibility, which means receiving frequent checkups, balanced medical care, and psychological support are all musts.

 

Chronic Constipation Q&A

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Hemorrhoids: Everything That You Should Know

Chronic Constipation Q&A

 

When it happens once, constipation can be an annoying, uncomfortable, and all-around unpleasant experience. When it occurs day after day for a prolonged period of time, this health condition can affect your life in many ways. For example, people who suffer from chronic constipation often find themselves shying away from activities that they formerly enjoyed due to the fear that bloating and discomfort that they experience will detract from the experience. And even if you make a serious effort to continue with your day-to-day life, those negative symptoms follow you.

Fortunately, managing chronic constipation is possible. This can sometimes be done on your own, using a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and simple home remedies. In more serious or persistent cases, you may need to visit a doctor who can help diagnose the root cause of the issue, rule out any serious underlying conditions, and ease your symptoms.

Learning more about chronic constipation can help you make smarter, more effective health care decisions in order to limit your symptoms and control any greater medical risks. Read on to discover a few of the most important facts regarding this common condition.

 

How Often Should I Have A Bowel Movement?

As a general rule, a “normal” frequency of bowel movements can range anywhere from three times per day to three times per week. If you find yourself going less than three times per week for at least two weeks on end, then you probably need some type of lifestyle change and/or medical attention.

 

Is Chronic Constipation a Common Problem?

Yes! Chronic constipation, defined as difficulty passing stool, infrequent stool movements, or other waste-disposal problems that last longer than three weeks, actually affects upwards of 20% of Americans at some point during their lives. So there is no sense in feeling shy or embarrassed about this common condition — if you are suffering, then reach out and get the help you need!

 

What Causes Constipation?

In most cases, this problem is the result of one or more of the following issues:

 

    • Dehydration, which causes stool to become hard and dried out.
    • Lack of fiber, which deprives your digestive system of the bulk it needs to pass stool in a time-effective manner.
    • “Holding it” too frequently, which causes you to miss out on the natural window of opportunity in which your body would be facilitating a bowel movement, thus causing stool to spend extra time in the colon, during which it becomes harder.  

 

  • A serious health condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome, colorectal cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, depression, or thyroid imbalances.

 

 

Is Failing to Pass Stool for a Prolonged Period of Time Dangerous?

Despite common misconceptions, your body doesn’t “absorb toxins” when you are constipated, and unless you go over a month without passing stool, the issue itself doesn’t pose any direct danger. However, constipation does increase your risk for developing hemorrhoids, and the cramping, pain, and discomfort can have a negative impact on your lifestyle. Moreover, as we mentioned before, constipation can sometimes be a sign of a serious health condition, which is why getting this problem checked out by a medical professional is recommendable.

 

How Can I Control My Symptoms?

If your constipation is not severe or prolonged, then you can start by trying these simple steps:

 

  • Eat a healthier diet with more fiber and less processed food.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Try an over-the-counter medicine or herbal remedy.

 

If your condition is severe, has been going on for a long period of time, or doesn’t respond to the remedies listed above, then you should make an appointment with a local specialist who can treat your symptoms and the underlying problem.

Can Colon Polyps be Prevented?

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Can Colon Polyps be Prevented?

Oftentimes completely painless and asymptomatic, colon polyps are noncancerous growths that occur throughout the lower digestive tract and usually end up being completely harmless. However, they are still a reason for concern, because, if left untreated, some colon polyps can develop into cancerous growths. Moreover, even noncancerous polyps can eventually lead to pain and bothersome symptoms if they grow too large. Therefore, it is important for everyone — especially patients over the age of 50 or with certain risk factors – to learn about colon polyps and how they can be treated or prevented.

First off, to answer the question posed in the title of this article, many colon polyps can be prevented. The primary risk factors for developing a colon polyp include age, genetic factors, inflammatory bowel diseases, tobacco use, alcohol use, and type 2 diabetes. By eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and fiber, many inflammatory bowel diseases, along with most cases of type 2 diabetes, can be avoided. And controlling your alcohol and tobacco and take can further reduce your risk.

However, you will also notice that your age and genetic factors are not so easily controllable. People over the age of 50, people with a family history of colon polyps, people with certain genetic problems, and people of African American descent are all at an increased risk of developing colon polyps. Even if you live a very healthy lifestyle, you should still be aware of this issue — especially as you advance in age.

Regular checkups with your doctor are crucial. After all, most colon polyps do not cause any symptoms. Though bleeding, changes in stool color, changes in bowel movements, pain, nausea, vomiting, and iron deficiency are all potential reactions to this issue, there is no guarantee that your body will alert you to colon issues before a problem has become serious.

Now for some good news: colon screenings are normally fairly straightforward and painless. The most famous option is colonoscopy, however you should know that these are only performed once every 10 years in most cases. You may occasionally need less invasive options such as a virtual colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy, though, especially if you have multiple risk factors for colon cancer. These screening options are not always exceedingly popular with patients; however, they are crucial to preventing and treating cancer and an optimal time frame.

If your doctor does happen to find a colon polyp during an examination, the odds are good that he or she can simply remove the polyp immediately as a part of the procedure without any further complications. You may not even realize that this has happened until your doctor tells you so! In the event that a colon polyp has grown especially large or has become cancerous, your doctor will probably schedule surgery or another treatment plan on another day.

If you have had colon polyps diagnosed, treated, and removed, your doctors may make a few recommendations or treatment plans for the future. For example, your doctor may suggest that you receive colon cancer screening at more regular intervals in the future, or that you make a few lifestyle changes in order to reduce your risk of experiencing further colon-related problems in the future.

If you are concerned about your colon health, if you are due for a colonoscopy, or if you have been diagnosed with problems such as colon polyps and would like to receive a second opinion, we encourage you to visit Surgical Specialist of Long Island online for more information and a chance to make an appointment today!

5 Reasons why Patients Avoid Colonoscopies

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

5 Reasons why Patients Avoid Colonoscopies

It is a procedure that takes as little as 20 minutes and could potentially save your life. In fact, it has been scientifically proven to save the lives of thousands every year. And most patients who do it report little to no discomfort. All the same, colonoscopies have received a very bad reputation, and each year thousands of patients who should receive this important procedure instead avoid it, putting themselves at risk for cancer and other severe health problems. Why does this happen? Let’s take a quick look at 5 of the most common reasons why patients avoid colonoscopies.

  1. They don’t have any family history or known risk factors, and therefore believe that a colonoscopy is not necessary. The truth is that anyone over the age of 50 is at risk for colon cancer and therefore should receive a colonoscopy every ten years, unless another screening method or screening frequency is recommended by their doctor. Moreover, even though health information is readily available online, it is important to keep in mind that only a doctor can assess your personal level of risk, and that there are many risk factors you may not be fully aware of.
  2. They fear that the procedure will cause pain or discomfort. Nearly everyone has had the displeasure of experiencing a painful or uncomfortable medical procedure. Whether an unpleasant trip to the dentist as a child or an annoying blood test as an adult, these things are bound to happen sooner or later, and they tend to leave a bad impression. Because of this, many of us shy away from procedures that we believe could cause us discomfort in the future. And colonoscopies, as we already mentioned, have a bad reputation in this sense. However, the truth is that the vast majority of patients report feeling little to no discomfort when when having a colonoscopy. Sometimes, the idea of a procedure is scarier than the procedure itself!
  3. They feel embarrassed. Once again, the idea of a colonoscopy can be uncomfortable for some. This issue can be quite challenging for doctors, as it is not usually easy to talk someone out of their feelings. However, it is important to understand just how important this procedure is — and perhaps, taking that into account, you can overcome any negative feelings and accept that a colonoscopy is necessary. At the very least, you should know that great lengths are always undertaken to protect patient privacy and dignity.
  4. They feel like the procedure is inconvenient. Colonoscopies usually last less than one hour. However, the drugs that are given for colonoscopies last a bit longer, and between the procedure time and the time needed for colonoscopy drugs to wear off, patients generally miss one day of work. In today’s fast-paced world, this can seem tremendously inconveniencing for patients. And this dissuades many people from undergoing the process at all. It is worth pointing out, however (morbid as it may seem), that this is not much compared to the amount of time that you would need to miss if you ended up being diagnosed with colon cancer because you failed to treat a routine colon polyp on time. There is a lot at stake, and you owe it to yourself not to allow the small inconvenience of a routine procedure to expose you to the larger inconvenience of serious illness.
  5. They are afraid that the results of the test will not be favorable. For some people, the fear of an unfavorable test result is enough to keep them away from undergoing medical examinations altogether. Though understandable on an emotional level, this idea is quite logically flawed. It is important to realize that in today’s world, most diseases can be cured as long as they are caught in their early stages! A bad result should not scare you — what should scare you is the idea of not knowing about a bad result until it is too late.

If you wish to learn more about colonoscopies, or schedule your own appointment, we encourage you to visit Surgical Specialists of Long Island online today.

Hemorrhoids: Everything That You Should Know

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Hemorrhoids: Everything That You Should Know

Are you experiencing problems with hemorrhoids? You’re not alone. Approximately 75% of adults experience hemorrhoids at least once during their lifetime — and for some, this can become a chronic problem. Thankfully, hemorrhoids usually go away on their own, and there are many treatment options available that can reduce pain and/or speed up the healing process. It is also worth pointing out that hemorrhoids can be prevented in many cases with a healthy lifestyle and by limiting risk factors. This highlights the importance of education regarding the subject. So if you want to learn more about this common health issue and how you can treat or prevent it, then this hemorrhoids overview is for you.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels, similar to varicose veins, that affect the area around the rectum. Though rarely dangerous, they can cause discomfort ranging from mild irritation to severe pain.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be caused by a variety of factors, oftentimes related to diet and/or lifestyle. People who spend lots of time sitting down are at increased risk, for  example — and this makes many professions, such as bus drivers and call center attendants, a risk factor. Patients who are overweight or obese also experience hemorrhoids at a higher rate, as do pregnant women. Last but not least, straining on the toilet can lead to hemorrhoids, which is why digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation are also frequently listed as potential causes.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

The most common signs of hemorrhoids include bleeding, itching, pain, swelling, and the development of a small, painful lump on or near the anus. Of course, it is important to remember that these symptoms can also be signs of more dangerous conditions, which is why they should not be ignored.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience excessive bleeding, dizziness when using the bathroom, or lack of improvement in your condition over time, then it is probably a good idea to see a doctor. After all, these symptoms can all be signs of a larger problem — and, at the very least, your doctor can give you personalized advice on how to alleviate your symptoms.

Diagnosis

Hemorrhoids can usually be diagnosed through a visual inspection, though digital examination may be required. The three types of hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids (usually painless), external hemorrhoids (oftentimes irritable), and thrombosed hemorrhoids (which, though rare, can become extremely painful if left untreated.)

Hemorrhoid Treatments

Treatments for hemorrhoids are usually all about alleviating symptoms, because hemorrhoids usually aren’t dangerous and will get away on their own. Applying ice, utilizing topical ointments, and taking oral pain medications are the most common treatment options. If complications occur, your doctor may recommend a surgical treatment for hemorrhoids. Finally, your doctor may also recommended other tests or examinations in order to be certain that hemorrhoids are the cause behind your symptoms, and not merely a symptom of a larger issue.

Preventing Hemorrhoids

One final piece of good news: with a healthy lifestyle and smart choices, you can probably avoid hemorrhoids all together. Avoid spending excessive time in a sitting position, and if your job requires this be sure to take breaks whenever possible. Getting plenty of fiber and hydration can help prevent the need to strain on the toilet. Going to the bathroom immediately upon feeling a need to, rather than holding it, can also help. Last but not least, because weight plays a role, a healthy, moderated diet with plenty of exercise can also reduce your risk for developing hemorrhoids.

To learn more about hemorrhoids and other common health conditions, visit Surgical Specialist of Long Island online today.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal Cancer Screening

 

According to the American Cancer Society, there is “95,520 new cases of colon cancer,” estimated for 2017. It is the third most common cancer excluding skin cancer in the United States. The disease affects both men and women. The discovery of and spread of the colorectal cancer can be prevented through regular cancer screenings.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is also known as colon cancer. It starts in the colon or rectum and are often grouped with rectal cancer because of similar features. Symptoms include abdominal pain as well as a change in bowel movements. A polyp may develop in the colon or rectum’s inner lining and turn into cancer which is why it’s important to have it monitored.

Who Gets Colorectal Cancer?

People over the age of 50 are at greater risk for this form of cancer. Men and women who have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s Disease or other similar bowel-related diseases as well as smokers, drinkers, and consumers of red meat have a greater chance of developing and being diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Statistically, men have a greater chance of developing the disease. The American Cancer Society reports that “Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is: about 1 in 21 (4.7%) for men and 1 in 23 (4.4%) for women.” There isn’t a large margin of difference between the two sexes which means that everyone should be screened for the disease.

What Does a Screening for Colorectal Cancer Entail?

Screenings for colorectal cancer has helped the death rate decrease for several decades. Men and women with polyps are having them removed before they turn to cancer. The survival rate connected with colorectal cancer in the United States has improved, too, with over 1 million people surviving the deadly disease.

A colonoscopy is the most common screening process for patients with colorectal cancer symptoms. The doctor will give you very clear instructions to follow to prepare for the procedure. You’ll be asked to drink clear liquids and to stop eating solid foods.

You may even be required to take a laxative or a special drink to consume that helps with the colonoscopy. You’ll also be given medication that helps you relax. This makes it easier for the doctor to insert the colonoscope through the rectum and into the colon.

He or she will then be able to monitor your body for ulcers and polyps. Any polyp that is present is removed and tested for cancer. Your doctor will then monitor you closely for future signs of colorectal cancer because of the discovery they made.

After the procedure is complete, you’ll remain at the facility where you can be watched. You’ll then need someone to drive you home as the medication you were given at the time of the colonoscopy makes you drowsy and impairs judgement. You’ll need to drink a good amount of water to replace what you lost during the preparatory process.

You’ll then wait to hear back from the surgeon who may have sent tissue in to the lab for further testing. You can have results back in as few as a couple days or weeks. It depends on what was discovered and how busy the lab is at the time they received the samples.

Take Charge of Your Health by Scheduling a Screening Today

There is nothing more empowering than taking an active interest in your own health. By knowing what risk factors exist, you have ways to prevent and fight colorectal cancer should you be diagnosed with it. Partnering up with a trusted medical professional is the quickest, easiest, and most reliable way to learn more about your health.

Schedule a Colorectal Cancer screening with Surgical Specialist of Long Island right away. It’s important that you take preventative steps by meeting with a physician who can monitor you for signs of this form of cancer.

Having a physician you feel comfortable speaking to helps you ask the right kinds of questions that help your health. If colon surgery is in your future, you’ll relax knowing that it is performed by a surgeon you trust. The process is minimally invasive, too, meaning that you’ll heal faster and be back to your day-to-day activities in no time.

Colon Polyps and What to Do About Them

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

colon-polyps-and-what-to-do-about-them

Colon Polyps and What to Do About Them

 

The division of cells in your body is a natural and constant process. As your cells die, your body races to replace them. However, sometimes your body continues to create cells in places where new cells aren’t yet needed. As the cells build up, they will become abnormal growths. It is under these circumstances that colon polyps–clusters of cells in the lining of colon–form.

Types of polyps

There are three types of polyps that are mostly likely to be found in your colon, and they can indicate different things about your health.

  • Adenomatous polyps are the most common polyps to be found in the lining of the colon. They are also the most likely to be malignant, but the chances of that happening are small.
  • Serrated polyps can have different significance depending on their shape and location. Larger, flat polyps located in the upper colon, which are harder for doctors to find, are precancerous. However, serrated polyps found in the lower colon are rarely malignant.
  • Inflammatory polyps are the result of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease and are not malignant, but the diseases that cause these polyps can cause cancer.

Risk Factors

Risk factors are traits that can make a certain person more likely to develop colon polyps. In general, adults are more likely to develop polyps if they are 50 years old, or older. It has been found that if a member of your immediate family has colon polyps, your chances of developing polyps will significantly increase. Those who make unhealthy choices such as excessive drinking, smoking, or eating excessive amounts of red meat will also be more likely to have polyps.

Symptoms

As colon polyps are not something you can see externally, you should be on the lookout for the symptoms. Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are all common symptoms of colon polyps, but as they are symptoms of many other issues, they may be indicative of something else. This isn’t to say you should ignore them. If colon polyps bleed slowly over time, the bleeding can cause your iron levels to become low, which leads to anemia. Rectal bleeding is another symptom of the polyps, but it can also be the result of a tear in tissue. A change in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea is another symptom, so as common as it can be, it should not be ignored.

Appointment Prep

You don’t want to find out that you have colon polyps from the symptoms. If the polyps are discovered and removed early enough, there will be no symptoms at all. However, if you do have symptoms make sure that you’ve identified them so that when you meet with a doctor, you can give them as much information as possible. You should also write down any question you have beforehand so that you don’t forget when it comes time to ask your doctor.

Further Action

If your doctor believes that you may have colon polyps, they’ll want to screen you for them. This could come on the form of a colonoscopy, but others procedures are also available depending on what your doctor sees fit. For example, adenomatous polyps can be found with a sigmoidoscopy, but all other types require a colonoscopy or something else similar. Polyps should be removed as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming cancerous.

You’re better off safe than sorry. Polyps can exist in the lining of your colon for a decade before coming cancerous, but that doesn’t mean you should leave them there until it is too late. A recommended screening can save your life, so you should put it off. We of Surgical Specialist of Long Island will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you make an appointment. Visit our website today to learn more.

The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Posted on by Dr. Tara Martinez

Colorectal cancer screening

The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Colorectal Cancer can be an uncomfortable subject to discuss, but it is important nonetheless. When it its early stages, colorectal cancer is highly treatable. At this time, there are likely no symptoms, and no way of you knowing whether you have it or not. As the disease progresses, symptoms will start to appear, but by that point, the cancer will be much more difficult to kill, and the cancer may have already spread out of your colon. However, regular screening will allow your doctor to catch the cancer before it ever progresses that far.

Risk Factors

Risk factors are characteristics that can make a certain person more susceptible to colorectal cancer than others. People in general are more likely to develop this form of cancer if they are 50 years old, or older. You are also more likely to develop cancer if you suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s Disease, or something similar. Those who participate in risky habits such as excessive smoking, drinking, or eating red meat will be more likely to suffer from the disease than those who don’t. If you have a close family member who developed cancer, that also puts you at a greater risk.

Before the colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is the most common type of screening for patients who may have colorectal cancer. In the days leading up to the procedure, your doctor will give you instructions for what to eat and how to clear yourself of waste. Basic instructions are to stop eating solid foods, drink only clear liquids, and avoid foods artificially colored red or purple. Your doctor will likely prescribe to you either a laxative tablet or solution to take during the evening before your procedure–however the special diet will begin earlier than that. If given the solution, you may want to have another drink near by as the flavor of the solution can be quite off-putting. This part of the process may be unpleasant, but it is essential to the overall procedure.

The colonoscopy

On the day of the colonoscopy, you will be given medicine to help your body’s relax. Many patients who have received colonoscopies report that they fell asleep for the process, and hardly remember it. After the medicine has kicked in, the doctor will take a long, thin tube called a colonoscope and insert it into your colon through your rectum. Attached to the colonoscope is a light and a camera. The camera feed will appear on a screen in order for the doctor to see if there are any ulcers, polyps, etc. Often, if a doctor sees any kind of growth in your colon, they will want to remove it immediately before it has the opportunity to become cancerous.

After the procedure

After your colonoscopy is over, you will be kept in the facility for an hour or two. You will need someone else to drive you home as the sedative you were given beforehand makes driving dangerous. Once home, it is advised that you drink copious amount of water to replace any liquids your body may have lost during colon prep.  Any information collected during your colonoscopy, such a tissue sample, may need to be sent in to a lab for further analysis. You should have the results of your colonoscopy anytime from two days after to a few weeks after the initial procedure, but this will depend on when is found and how busy the lab is.

A colorectal cancer screening could save your life. It is a normal procedure which almost everyone over the age of 50 will have done. If you have any questions, or need help finding a specialist, we at Surgical Specialist of Long Island, PC are here to help. Visit our website for more information.