Polyps are asymptomatic most times. They are usually an incidental finding. Colorectal polyps present with a slow and occult bleeding in the rectum; the CBC reveals an iron deficiency anemia. When a large polyp obstructs the colon the patient may experience abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting demanding an emergency surgical polypectomy. A polyp may also present as change in bowel habits like prolonged constipation or diarrhea.
A nasal polyp typically manifests itself with obstruction, stuffiness, runny nose, post nasal discharge, breathing from the mouth, snoring, and decreased sense of smell.
The symptoms of cervical polyps are any abnormal vaginal bleeding, like bleeding between menses, post coital bleeding or post menopausal bleeding. Uterine polyps usually present with a heavy menstrual flow, irregular periods, and infertility.

• Pathologist

  First, in order to determine whether a colon polyp is benign or malignant, it is usually necessary for a pathologist to examine the tissue under a microscope. [swedish.org]

  When your colon was biopsied, the samples taken were studied under the microscope by a specialized doctor with many years of training called a pathologist. The pathologist sends your doctor a report that gives a diagnosis for each sample taken. [cancer.org]

  Future checks If adenomas are confirmed by a pathologist, it is recommended that the patient have regular "check-ups" by repeated colonoscopy. [cssanz.org]

  Abstract Two issues commonly arise for pathologists reporting adenomatous polyps of the colorectum. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Severe Pain

  People may also want to contact their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms: bleeding after menopause spotting in-between periods unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge severe pain in the lower back, legs, or pelvis Benign growths [medicalnewstoday.com]

  Fissures typically cause severe pain and bleeding with bowel movements. Fissures are quite common in the general population, but are of... [fascrs.org]

• Hoarseness

  It is not normal to be hoarse at these times; hoarseness is an indication that something is wrong. Evaluation at this time is critical to ensure reversibility. Unfortunately, people often ignore hoarseness because when they rest, it goes away. [voicedoctorla.com]

  Often, when a patient notes mild hoarseness but no significant functional limitations or abnormalities, he or she only wants to know if the hoarseness is due to a cancer. [otolaryngology.pitt.edu]

  Depending on their size, location, and type (sessile vs. pedunculated), a poyps can cause symptoms that range from mild hoarseness to severe voice impairment. How are polyps treated? Unlike nodules, polyps often require surgery. [entcolumbia.org]

  Symptoms of vocal cord nodules, polyps, and granulomas include chronic hoarseness and a breathy voice, which tend to develop over days to weeks. [merckmanuals.com]

• Dyspnea

  In cats, inflammatory polyps arise from mucosa of the nasal cavity or auditory canal. nasopharyngeal polyp occur in cats of any age; inflammatory in origin, they may cause dyspnea, sometimes sneezing. pharyngeal polyp cause difficult swallowing and breathing [medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com]

• Rectal Bleeding

  They should be given diagnostic consideration in patients presenting with symptoms of rectal bleeding, tenesmus, and altered bowel habits. © 2013. KEYWORDS: Adolescent; Cloacogenic polyps; Rectal bleeding [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Center: 53 year-old woman with rectal bleeding and a family history of colonic carcinoma, with this small (1 cm) benign-appearing polyp which contained adenocarcinoma invading the stalk. [endoatlas.com]

  […] may be an indication of rectal bleeding and should be evaluated by a doctor. [healthline.com]

• Osteoporosis

  […] with pathological fracture 병적 골절을 동반한 골다공증 M80.0 Postmenopausal osteoporosis with pathological fracture 병적 골절을 동반한 폐경기후 골다공증 M80.1 Postoophorectomy osteoporosis with pathological fracture 병적 골절을 동반한 난소적출술후 골다공증 M80.2 Osteoporosis of disuse with pathological [kmle.co.kr]

  Long-term use of oral steroids is not recommended because of the numerous potential adverse effects (eg, growth retardation, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, psychotropic effects, adverse GI effects, cataracts, glaucoma, osteoporosis, and aseptic necrosis [emedicine.medscape.com]

  This is because using the medication for longer than this increases your risk of developing side effects, such as: weakening of your bones (osteoporosis) high blood pressure diabetes weight gain If your symptoms do not improve after three weeks, you may [hse.ie]

  After menopause, females have a greater risk of osteoporosis (loss of calcium causing bones to weaken), and they should have 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium a day. A quart of milk a day provides adequate calcium. [gicare.com]

• Confusion

  Confused and have questions? We’ve got answers. With Chegg Study, you can get step-by-step solutions to your questions from an expert in the field. If you rather get 1:1 study help, try 30 minutes of free online tutoring with Chegg Tutors. [biology-online.org]

  The wide range of medical and surgical options available for the treatment of endometrial polyps can cause stress and confusion for many women. [flo.health]

  I go to be put to sleep, and I wake up, *I'm sorry they didn't remove them* very confused at this point. Doctor comes to speak to me, turns out their was nothing there. Cervix looks smooth and fine. And womb looks furry. [cancerresearchuk.org]

  Also call right away if you have any signs of possible problems such as: Abnormal vision Swelling around your eyes Confusion or loss of alertness Key points about nasal polyps Nasal polyps are soft, swollen, sac-like growths of inflamed tissue. [saintlukeskc.org]

  Fissures are quite common in the general population, but are often confused with other causes ... Anal warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD). [fascrs.org]

Polyps are usually diagnosed during investigations being done for some other purpose. The basic test for a colorectal polyp is a fecal occult blood test to detect bleeding, but flexible sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy or a minimally invasive CT scan may also be done. A colonoscopy is advisable for resection or for a biopsy being done to rule out malignancy. Capsule colonoscopy has 88% sensitivity and 82% specificity and can be carried out for patients who cannot undergo colonoscopy. [6] Nasal polyps are diagnosed with the help of a nasal endoscopy, CT scan, and MRI. Children found to have nasal polyps should definitely undergo a sweat test to rule out cystic fibrosis. Cervical polyp is a finding on pelvic examination and can be confirmed with biopsy (that is also considered the best way to detect the nature of any polyp). Uterine polyps are usually found in a transvaginal ultrasound or during a hysteroscopy. [7] 

Colorectal polyps are best treated with surgical removal due to the chances of development of cancer. Most of the times a colonoscopic resection of the polyp is done and it is sent for histopathology in order to determine its type. The histopathology report also determines the follow up plan. While polypectomy is the first line treatment, it is seen that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) can reduce the number and size of polyps. [8] However, colonic resection may be required if there are multiple polyps or large sessile polyps.
The first line treatment of nasal polyps to reduce size is corticosteroid nasal sprays like fluticasone, budesonide, triamcinalone, and beclomethasone. [9] Oral corticosteroids like prednisone as a 1 week dose tapering can also help. Large polyps can only be treated with endoscopic surgical removal which is usually an outpatient procedure.
Cervical polyps need removal only when they are very large or bleed. A small outpatient procedure, cervical polyps can be easily removed with a small and gentle twisting or electrocautery. Small uterine polyps which can be safely left untreated as they regress on their own. Certain hormonal medications like progestin or gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists may help but is a short term solution. Surgical removal is advised when severe symptoms appear.

Most of the polyps are usually benign and only few turn cancerous. Colorectal polyps start as small and benign lesions and as they get larger their potential to turn malignant increases. Serrated polyps, usually found in the caecum and the ascending colon, possess a high malignant potential. Polyps grow slowly and cancer development occurs approximately 10 years after the formation of a small polyp. [5] Nasal polyps are never cancerous and carry a very high recurrence rate after post surgical removal. Most cervical polyps are non-cancerous and do not grow back. Endometrial polyps are usually benign and only 0.5% contain adenocarcinoma cells. The rate of development into a malignancy is much higher in postmenopausal women with an endometrial polyp.

Polyps become common with age. The definite cause of polyps is still not clear. A particular mutation seems to trigger an unregulated growth of the cells of the mucous membranes causing the formation of a mass. However, there are definitely certain risk factors associated with the formation of polyps. Colorectal polyps are common in people with a family history of polyps or colonic cancer, tobacco and alcohol users, people who are overweight, and in those following a diet rich in fat and low in fiber [1]. Polyps of the nose and sinuses are linked with chronic inflammation of the air passages as in allergic rhinitis and asthma. Cervical and uterine polyps are related to increased estrogen levels, chronic inflammation, and maybe infection.

The incidence of colorectal polyps is low in young individuals belonging to the age group of 30 – 50 years. The incidence significantly increases in individuals above the age of 50. It has also been observed that patients with hyperplastic polyps and adenomas are at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. In addition, it has been observed that African Americans show a greater prevalence of proximal or right sided polyps with poor outcome if cancer develops. The incidence of nasal polyps is around 36% in aspirin intolerant patients, 7% in asthmatics, and about 20% in those with cystic fibrosis. [2] Nasal polyps are more common in young and middle age. The incidence of cervical polyps is higher in women who have had children and are in perimenopause, while is rare in pre menstrual girls and post menopausal women. Uterine polyps occur in around 10% of the women and are most common in women in their 40s and 50s. [3]

In normal colonic mucosa, cellular proliferation is restricted to the lower half of the tube and the normal process of generation, maturation and cell death occurring in a normal fashion. An abnormality in the genes prevents the cells from maturing and dying leading to the accumulation of immature and genetically abnormal cells. The genetic basis of the adenoma-carcinoma sequence involves mutation of the DCC, k-ras, and p53 genes. [4] Endometrial or uterine polyps usually comprise glands and vascular tissue. They have a characteristic cytogenetic rearrangement in the high-mobility group (HMG) family of transcription factors.

Colorectal polyps can be prevented to a great extent with regular investigations and careful examinations by a doctor. A colonoscopy done once a year in patients in the age groupof  50 – 75 years, those with a strong family history of colon cancer or in patients who have undergone polypectomy can be very useful. It has been observed that people following a diet full of vegetables, fruits, or rich in calcium and vitamin D are at a lower risk of developing adenomatous polyps and colon cancer. [10] Aspirin has also been found to reduce the risk of development of adenomatous polyps and colorectal cancer. [10] Nasal polyps cannot be prevented and a high recurrence rate has been observed even after surgical removal. Cervical polyps and uterine polyps are best prevented by regular examinations and screening investigations.

Polyps are abnormal growths found commonly in the colon, cervix or nose. They are usually benign but have the risk of developing into malignant growths which can be determined through biopsy.

Polyps treatment depends on the size, location, number and whether or not they are cancerous.

Polyps are abnormal growths that bulge out from the wall of any organ. These growths mostly occur in the large intestine, nasal passage and sinuses, the female reproductive organs like cervix and uterus, and urinary bladder. Polyps may occur as a single growth or as multiple projections. The diagnosis of polyps is usually done when the patient is being investigated for some other reason. The symptoms vary based on the location of the polyps . Mostly, bleeding from the anus, longstanding constipation or diarrhea, stuffy nose, nasal obstruction, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and heavy menses are the commonest symptoms. Usually polyps are benign, non-cancerous growths and do not require removal. Polyps occurring in the large intestine or rectum may turn cancerous after a period of time requiring urgent attention. A regular screening procedure with tests like colonoscopy as advised by a doctor is the best way to prevent complications. Nasal polyps are always non-cancerous and surgical removal does not prevent their recurrence. On the contrary, use of medicines like corticosteroids can reduce symptoms caused by polyps. Small cervical and uterine polyps do not require removal as they disappear on their own after a certain period of time. A nutritious diet full of leafy greens with avoidance of alcohol and tobacco along with regular examinations by a doctor can greatly prevent the formation of polyps.

1. Haque TR, Bradshaw PT, Crockett SD. Risk factors for serrated polyps of the colorectum. Dig Dis Sci. 2014 Dec;59(12):2874-89.
2. Bavbek S, Dursun B, Dursun E, et al. The prevalence of aspirin hypersensitivity in patients with nasal polyposis and contributing factors. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2011 Nov-Dec;25(6):411-5. doi: 10.2500/ajra.2011.25.3660.
3. Casey PM, Gallenberg MM, Kastner TM, et al. Outcomes in women age 40 years and older with cytologically benign endometrial cells. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Nov;207(5):379.e1-6.
4. Wiland HO 4th, Shadrach B, Allende D, et al. Morphologic and molecular characterization of traditional serrated adenomas of the distal colon and rectum.Am J Surg Pathol. 2014 Sep;38(9):1290-7.
5. Cappell MS.From colonic polyps to colon cancer: pathophysiology, clinical presentation, screening and colonoscopic therapy.Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. 2007 Dec;53(4):351-73.
6. Romero-Vázquez J, Argüelles-Arias F, et al. Capsule endoscopy in patients refusing conventional endoscopy. World J Gastroenterol. 2014 Jun 21;20(23):7424-33.
7. de Godoy Borges PC, Dias R, t al. Transvaginal ultrasonography and hysteroscopy as predictors of endometrial polyps in postmenopause.Womens Health (Lond Engl). 2015 Jan;11(1):29-33.
8. Murff HJ, Shrubsole MJ, Chen Z, et al. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use and risk of adenomatous and hyperplastic polyps. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Nov;4(11):1799-807.
9. Wang C, Lou H, Wang X, et al. Effect of budesonide transnasal nebulization in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014 Dec 4. pii: S0091-6749(14)01513-9.
10. Miller EA, Keku TO, Satia JA, et al. Calcium, dietary, and lifestyle factors in the prevention of colorectal adenomas. Cancer. 2007 Feb 1;109(3):510-7.