
Polyps Removal Singapore: Is it bad to Remove Polyps?
When it comes to colorectal health, polyps are abnormal growths that develop in the colon or rectum. They form when cells in the lining of these organs grow too rapidly.
This rapid growth of cells may result in a mass of tissue known as polyps. Now, most polyps are harmless.
However, some can become cancerous over time. It is also worth noting that polyps often do not cause any symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential.
However, you may want to see a colon doctor to help you remove polyps if they become larger polyps or grow in certain locations that make them cause symptoms like rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain.
In today’s article, we explain whether it is a bad idea to remove polyps. We also explain what happens if you remove all polyps and also what may happen if you just choose to let the polyps be and not remove them. Keep reading.
Is it Bad to have Polyps Removed?
If polyps were found during one of your routine screenings or you got symptoms after your colonoscopy, polyps were found, your colon doctor may suggest having them removed. Now, while most polyps are benign, some can progress to become cancerous over time.
Ideally, removing polyps during a colonoscopy is a preventive measure to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. That said, having polyps removed is generally not bad. In fact, it is a proactive approach to preventing colorectal cancer. What’s more, the procedure to remove polyps is usually quick and straightforward, with minimal risks.
So, there isn’t much to worry about polyps removal in Singapore if you’re seeing a skilled colon doctor for the procedure. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks you will need to be aware of before consenting to the procedure.
The most notable ones include bleeding or perforation of the colon. These risks are generally low and are outweighed by the benefits of preventing cancer.
What happens if you remove all Polyps?
Polyps removal is a quick procedure. However as is the case with other procedures, you may be curious to know what happens after your polyps removal in Singapore. Here’s a quick roundup;
· Relief from Symptoms
This is particularly true if your polyps did come with some symptoms that were uncomfortable. After removing polyps, you can expect some relief from symptoms like rectal bleeding or abdominal pain.
What’s more, this removal reduces the risk of developing colorectal cancer. So, it can give you some peace of mind especially if the polyps were suspected to be cancerous. However, some discomfort or bleeding might occur post-procedure. In most cases, this is usually mild and temporary.
· Post-Procedure Care
As already said, after polyp removal, you’ll likely experience some mild discomfort or cramping. Your colon doctor should provide instructions for post-procedure care.
These instructions may include dietary recommendations and any restrictions on activities like heavy lifting. It’s essential to follow these guidelines closely to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
You may also be advised to avoid certain medications. For example, even before the procedure, you may be advised to discontinue medications like aspirin or blood thinners, temporarily to reduce the risk of bleeding.
· Monitoring for Complications
Your polyps removal in Singapore does not casually end after the procedure. Ideally, you can expect your doctor to schedule follow-up appointments.
These follow-up appointments are necessary for monitoring your recovery and checking for any signs of complications like bleeding or infection. It’s crucial to attend these appointments as scheduled and to report any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, persistent bleeding, or fever.
Well, complications are quite rare. But early detection and intervention are key to ensuring your continued health and well-being.
· Changes in Bowel Movements
You may notice changes in your bowel movements following polyps removal. These changes may include increased frequency or temporary diarrhea.
They are usually temporary and should also improve within a few days but be sure to inform your colon doctor if you experience persistent diarrhea or other significant changes in bowel habits. They can help determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed.
· Dietary Adjustments
Your doctor may also recommend dietary adjustments to promote healing and reduce the risk of recurrence. The dietary adjustments, in this case, may include increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods, for example, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to support healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
They may also advise limiting certain foods that can irritate the digestive tract. Example foods you may want to avoid in this case include spicy or greasy foods. Follow these dietary recommendations to optimize your recovery and promote long-term colorectal health.
· Additional Colonoscopies
After polyp removal, your doctor may recommend regular surveillance colonoscopies to monitor for the development of new polyps or other abnormalities. This is important because even after polyps removal, there is still a 25% to 30% chance that additional polyps will be around during the repeat colonoscopies.
The frequency of these follow-up colonoscopies will depend on various factors, including the size, number and type of polyps that were found in your first exam. Other factors that may influence the frequency of the follow-ups include your overall health and your family history of colorectal cancer.
What happens if you don’t get Rid of Polyps?
In most cases, polyps are not even cancerous when found. Because of this, you may wonder if removing them is even necessary or what happens if you don’t get rid of polyps. Here’s a good answer;
If left untreated, polyps in the colon can develop into colorectal cancer over time. This progression typically occurs slowly and it can several years for polyps to transform into cancer. Generally, colon doctors remove polyps to stop them from transforming into cancer.
Regular screening tests can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous to prevent the development of colorectal cancer. Therefore, it’s crucial to undergo routine screenings and follow the advice of your colon specialists to maintain colorectal health.
In Closing
It is not bad to remove polyps. In fact, it could be all you need to significantly reduce your risks of developing colorectal cancer. To learn more about polyps removal in Singapore or schedule an appointment to assess polyps, get in touch with the team at Alpine Surgical Practice at;
Alpine Surgical Practice – Colorectal Screening | Colonoscopy | Piles & Haemorrhoids Surgery | Gallstones Removal
MOUNT ELIZABETH (ORCHARD)
3 Mount Elizabeth #14-06
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 6322 7323
+65 8875 0080
+65 6602 8086
PARKWAY EAST
319 Joo Chiat Place #04-07
Singapore 427989
+65 6589 8160
+65 8875 2149
+65 6871 8870