Are there any risks associated with intestinal polyps?
Generally, the potential harms of intestinal polyps may include abdominal discomfort, bleeding, anemia, intestinal obstruction, and intussusception. The analysis is as follows:
1. Abdominal discomfort: Intestinal polyps may cause abdominal discomfort, including symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. These symptoms may persist and affect the patient's quality of life.
2. Bleeding: During the growth of intestinal polyps, the surface may rupture or shed, leading to gastrointestinal bleeding. Especially during bowel movements, hard stools may damage the surface of the polyps, causing blood in the stool.
3. Anemia: Intestinal polyps may lead to chronic bleeding, which over time can cause iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia can make patients feel fatigued and appear pale; severe cases may affect overall health.
4. Intestinal obstruction: Larger intestinal polyps may occupy space within the intestinal lumen, causing narrowing of the intestine and potentially leading to intestinal obstruction. Symptoms of intestinal obstruction include abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and difficulty passing stool.
5. Intussusception: Intestinal polyps may also cause one segment of the intestine to telescope into another, known as intussusception. Intussusception can cause severe abdominal pain and rectal bleeding and is a serious complication requiring prompt treatment.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical treatment at a hospital through procedures such as natural orifice endoscopic surgery or laparoscopic surgery.