zaro

Can Polyps Come Out in Your Stool?

Published in Colorectal Health 3 mins read

Yes, it is possible for a polyp to be expelled in your stool, though it is an extremely rare occurrence. While polyps are typically discovered and removed through medical procedures, cases of them passing spontaneously during defecation have been documented.

Understanding Colorectal Polyps

Colorectal polyps are growths that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most are benign, some can develop into cancer over time, which is why their detection and removal are crucial.

  • Location: Polyps can vary in size and shape and can be found anywhere in the large intestine.
  • Discovery: Most colorectal polyps are usually discovered and resected (removed) during a medical procedure called a colonoscopy. This procedure allows a doctor to view the entire colon and remove any polyps found.

The Rarity of Spontaneous Expulsion

The spontaneous passage of a colorectal polyp through the rectum during defecation is considered exceedingly rare. Such an event is so unusual that cases, particularly involving an adenomatous polyp (a type with a higher risk of becoming cancerous), are significant enough to be documented as rare occurrences in medical literature. Typically, polyps are firmly attached to the colon wall and require medical intervention for removal.

Why is it so rare?

Polyps are generally sessile (flat) or pedunculated (on a stalk) and are attached to the delicate lining of the colon. For a polyp to detach and pass spontaneously, unusual circumstances would likely be involved, such as:

  • Torsion: A pedunculated polyp might twist on its stalk, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to necrose and detach.
  • Mechanical Stress: Intense straining during bowel movements, combined with a particular polyp structure, might theoretically lead to detachment, though this is not a common mechanism.
  • Inflammation or Infection: In very rare instances, severe inflammation or infection might weaken the polyp's attachment point.

What to Do If You See a Polyp in Your Stool

If you observe a growth that you suspect is a polyp in your stool, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. This is not a normal occurrence and requires prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Here are important steps to take:

  • Save the Sample: If possible and safe to do so, carefully retrieve the expelled growth. Place it in a clean, sealed container (like a plastic bag or small jar) and keep it cool (e.g., in the refrigerator) until you can take it to your doctor. This allows for pathological examination to determine its nature.
  • Note Symptoms: Pay attention to any other symptoms you may be experiencing, such as:
    • Rectal bleeding
    • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
    • Abdominal pain or cramping
    • Unexplained weight loss
  • Schedule a Doctor's Visit: Contact your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. They will need to investigate the source of the expelled tissue.
  • Prepare for Further Evaluation: Your doctor will likely recommend a colonoscopy to:
    • Confirm the presence or absence of other polyps in your colon.
    • Determine where the expelled polyp originated.
    • Ensure there are no underlying serious conditions.

Observing a polyp in your stool, while rare, is a significant sign that warrants a thorough medical examination to ensure your colorectal health.