Colonic Polyps Symptoms

Anal Bleeding

• A common symptom of colonic polyps is anal bleeding. You may notice blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper after a bowel movement. Anal bleeding is not always a symptom of colonic polyps. In some cases, it may be the result of a rectal tear, or it may be a bleeding hemorrhoid near the anus. While anal bleeding is not always an indication of a serious condition, inform your doctor.
  
  

Blood in the Stool

• People experiencing colonic polyps symptoms may see blood in their stool. In some cases, the blood may be bright red that mixes in with the stool, or the stool could be black. Black-colored stool could be the result of something in your diet, but to clarify, discuss these symptoms with your doctor.
  
  

Bowel Movement Changes

• A change in the pattern of your bowel movements also can be an indication of colonic polyps. For example, if you experience constipation or diarrhea that lasts for more than a week at a time, contact your doctor. It is also possible that your stool may become narrower than normal.
  
  

Obstruction

• Some colonic polyps can become large enough to partially block your large intestine and make it extremely difficult for a bowel movement. If this occurs, you may experience severe abdominal cramping during bowel movements and sharp pains prior to moving your bowels. These symptoms may create a feeling of nausea that could lead to vomiting.
  
  

Prognosis

• According to the Mayo Clinic, it is possible to have smaller colonic polyps and not know it. While colonic polyps are normally not cancerous or dangerous, it is possible for untreated polyps to become cancerous. The Mayo Clinic recommends regular screening for colonic polyps if you are over the age of 50 or if there is a history of colon cancer in your family.