Stomach Polyps

Stomach polyps are abnormal tissue growths that form on the inner lining of the stomach. They are usually benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, some types of polyps can lead to stomach cancer over time.

They mostly do not cause symptoms and are often discovered incidentally during routine endoscopic examinations. However, in some cases, they may cause symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding.

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A Life Health Group has an experienced team of gastroenterology specialists specialized in diagnosis and treatment. We are here to diagnose stomach polyps early with advanced diagnostic methods and endoscopic treatment options. We aim to provide you with the best and most reliable service.

They are abnormal tissue growths that form on the inner surface (mucosa) of the stomach. These growths can vary in size and shape. Most polyps are small and pedunculated, meaning they are attached to the stomach wall by a thin stalk. Some polyps can be broad-based and flat.

They are generally benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, some types of colon polyps can turn into stomach cancer over time. Therefore, early diagnosis and monitoring are important.

When examined under a microscope, they are classified into different types. The most common polyps are:

• Hyperplastic polyps: The most common type. Generally benign and small.
• Fundic gland polyps: Appear in the upper part of the stomach called the fundus. Generally benign.
• Adenomatous polyps: Considered precancerous and can develop into stomach cancer over time.
• Carcinoid tumors: A rare type of neuroendocrine tumor.

They mostly do not cause symptoms and are incidentally discovered during routine endoscopic examinations. However, in some cases, they may cause the following symptoms:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Anemia: (Due to bleeding)
• Blood in stool: (Due to bleeding)
• Feeling of fullness in the stomach: (In large polyps)
• Abdominal pain

The exact causes of polyp formation are not fully known. However, some factors are thought to increase the risk:

• Age: Polyps are especially more common with increasing age.
• Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium can cause stomach inflammation and stomach cancer and may also increase the formation of polyps.
• Family history: People with genetic factors or a family history of stomach cancer have a higher risk.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk.
• Chronic gastritis: Long-term inflammation of the stomach lining can increase the risk.
• Diet: A diet rich in salty and processed foods can increase the risk.

They are generally diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) is passed through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The endoscope has a camera at its tip that allows visualization of the stomach lining.

If polyps are detected during endoscopy, a biopsy can be taken and examined under a microscope. This helps determine the cause, type, and whether the polyps are cancerous.

How are stomach polyps removed? Treatment varies depending on the type, size, number, and cancer risk of the polyps.

• Small and benign polyps: Usually do not require treatment but are regularly monitored.
• Large or precancerous polyps: Removed endoscopically.
• Cancerous polyps: Removed surgically.

Endoscopic Polyp Removal Methods:

• Polypectomy: Polyps are removed using small instruments attached to the tip of the endoscope.
• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR): Used for removing larger polyps.
• Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD): Used for removing broad-based and flat polyps.

A Life Health Group has an experienced team of gastroenterology specialists specialized in diagnosis and treatment. We offer early diagnosis and treatment to patients with gastric polyps through advanced diagnostic methods and endoscopic treatment options. We are here to provide you with the best and most reliable service.

Advantages We Offer at A Life:

• Experienced and expert staff: Gastroenterologists specialized in their field make the correct diagnosis. They prepare the most suitable treatment plan for you.
• Advanced diagnostic methods: The type and size of your gastric polyps are determined with methods such as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy.
• Modern treatment methods: Your gastric polyps are treated with modern endoscopic methods such as polypectomy, EMR, and ESD.
• Patient-centered approach: You are supported throughout your treatment process and all your questions are answered.

Although it is not possible to completely prevent the development and formation of polyps, you can take some measures to reduce the risk:

• Healthy eating: Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid salty and processed foods.
• Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk.
• Treat Helicobacter pylori infection: If you have Helicobacter pylori infection, get treated as recommended by your doctor.
• Regular health check-ups: Especially after the age of 50, having regular endoscopies can help with early diagnosis.