About this condition
A growth in the large bowel may be a benign polyp or a malignant tumour. The word “growth” does not itself establish cancer, and some lesions produce no symptoms for a long time.
What matters most
Screening and risk-based evaluation matter because symptom-free growths can occur. Blood in stool, persistent changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss need assessment, but are not a diagnosis by themselves.
Symptoms and reasons to seek help
Potential signs include recurring blood in stool, sustained constipation or diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, anaemia, fatigue and weight loss. Some polyps are discovered only through screening.
How it differs from similar conditions
Haemorrhoids, inflammatory disease and other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Repeated bleeding should not be explained away without assessment, while a cancer diagnosis requires suitable confirmation.
Assessment and investigations
A clinician reviews symptoms, family history and previous screening. Colonoscopy with tissue sampling, pathology or other tests may be considered according to the risk and clinical question.
Care options and limitations
Management depends on what tissue testing shows and, if malignant, the location and stage. Decisions may involve an appropriate multidisciplinary team; symptoms alone cannot determine a treatment plan.
When emergency help is needed
Severe worsening abdominal pain with vomiting, pronounced bloating and stopped gas passage can indicate bowel obstruction. Major bleeding, collapse or fainting also needs emergency attention. Call 103 or 112 for serious acute symptoms.
Related information
Small-bowel growths and tumours; Bowel obstruction; Colonoscopy; Endoscopic removal of colorectal polyps.
Signs and symptoms
Potential signs include recurring blood in stool, sustained constipation or diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, anaemia, fatigue and weight loss. Some polyps are discovered only through screening.
Diagnosis and tests
A clinician reviews symptoms, family history and previous screening. Colonoscopy with tissue sampling, pathology or other tests may be considered according to the risk and clinical question.
Care and treatment approaches
Management depends on what tissue testing shows and, if malignant, the location and stage. Decisions may involve an appropriate multidisciplinary team; symptoms alone cannot determine a treatment plan.
When to seek urgent care
Severe worsening abdominal pain with vomiting, pronounced bloating and stopped gas passage can indicate bowel obstruction. Major bleeding, collapse or fainting also needs emergency attention. Call 103 or 112 for serious acute symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Does blood in stool always mean a tumour?
No. There are several causes, but recurrent bleeding requires investigation rather than assumptions.
Can a bowel growth be present without symptoms?
Yes. That is an important reason for age- and risk-appropriate colorectal screening.
Does every surgeon automatically perform colonoscopy?
No. Endoscopy is a separate service; the clinician, availability and indication must be confirmed.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
