Stomach Polyps

Overview

Stomach polyps are masses of cells that form on the lining inside the stomach. They are rare and usually don't cause any signs or symptoms. Most stomach polyps are discovered when a health care provider is examining a person for some other reason. Stomach polyps don't become cancerous in most cases, but certain types can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Treatment may involve removing the polyp or monitoring it for changes.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of stomach polyps may include pain or tenderness when pressing on the stomach, nausea, blood in the stool, and anemia. These symptoms may occur if a polyp enlarges and develops an ulcer, or if it blocks the opening between the stomach and the small intestine.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing stomach polyps include age (more common among people in mid-adulthood to late adulthood), bacterial stomach infection caused by Helicobacter pylori, familial adenomatous polyposis (an inherited syndrome that increases the risk of stomach polyps), certain medicines such as long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, smoking, excess alcohol use, obesity, lack of exercise, and fat intake. Black Americans also have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Development

Stomach polyps can develop in response to damage to the stomach lining. The most common causes of stomach polyps are:

1. Long-lasting stomach inflammation: Also known as gastritis, this condition can cause the formation of hyperplastic polyps and adenomas. Hyperplastic polyps are unlikely to become cancerous, but those larger than about 2/5 inch (1 centimeter) carry a greater risk. Adenomas are the least common type of stomach polyp but the type most likely to become cancerous. For that reason, they are generally removed.
2. Familial adenomatous polyposis: This rare, inherited syndrome increases the risk of colon cancer and other conditions, including stomach polyps. It causes certain cells on the stomach's inner lining to form a type of polyp called a fundic gland polyp. When associated with this syndrome, fundic gland polyps are removed because they can become cancerous. Familial adenomatous polyposis also can cause adenomas.
3. Certain medicines: Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors has been linked to fundic gland polyps. These are medicines used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease. The various types of stomach polyps develop differently based on their causes. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerning symptoms or if you have been diagnosed with a stomach polyp.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a doctor if you suspect stomach polyps if you experience symptoms such as pain or tenderness when pressing your stomach, nausea, or blood in your stool. Additionally, if you have a personal or family history of colon polyps or colon cancer, it's important to discuss your risk factors and the need for regular screening with your healthcare provider.

Diagnosis

To diagnose stomach polyps, your healthcare provider may use the following tests and procedures:

1. Endoscopy: A scope is inserted into your stomach to visually examine the inside. Polyps can be seen and potentially removed during the procedure.
2. Tissue sample (biopsy): A small tissue sample can be taken during endoscopy and analyzed in a laboratory to determine if the polyp is cancerous or not. These tests are typically performed to diagnose stomach polyps and help guide treatment decisions.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of stomach polyps include:

1. Cancer: While most stomach polyps are benign (non-cancerous), some types can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Adenomas are the least common type of stomach polyp but have the highest chance of becoming cancerous.
2. Intestinal obstruction: As stomach polyps enlarge, they can obstruct the passage between the stomach and the small intestine, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Bleeding: Enlarged polyps can cause ulcers on their surface, leading to bleeding in the stomach. This may result in anemia or other complications.
4. Duodenal polyps: In some cases, stomach polyps may lead to the development of duodenal polyps in the upper part of the small intestine. These polyps may also become cancerous.
5. Periampullary polyps: These polyps occur where the bile and pancreas ducts enter the duodenum (ampulla). Periampullary polyps might become cancerous but can often be detected and removed before cancer develops.
6. Desmoids: These noncancerous masses can arise anywhere in the body but often develop in the stomach area (abdomen). Desmoids can cause serious problems if they grow into nerves or blood vessels or exert pressure on other organs in your body. It is essential to monitor stomach polyps and seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Home Remedies

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of stomach polyps.

Treatment

Treatment for stomach polyps depends on the type of polyps you have. If you have small polyps that aren't adenomas, they might not require treatment. Your provider might recommend periodic monitoring so that growing polyps or ones that cause signs and symptoms can be removed. Large stomach polyps and adenomas may need to be removed during an endoscopy. Polyps associated with familial adenomatous polyposis are removed because they can become cancerous. Treating H. pylori infection can also make hyperplastic polyps disappear and may stop polyps from recurring.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for stomach polyps, you should:

1. Make a list of any symptoms you're experiencing.
2. Write down key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
3. Create a list of all medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal medications you're taking.
4. Bring a family member or friend along to help you remember the information provided during the appointment.
5. Write down questions to ask your doctor, such as the most likely cause of your symptoms, recommended tests, treatment options, and any necessary follow-up care. Remember to inform your doctor about any other health conditions you have and ask for their advice on managing them together. Preparing in advance will help you make the most of your appointment and ensure you receive the best possible care.