"Can Long Intestinal Polyps Cause Anemia?"

Colon Polyps May Lead to Anemia

Colon polyps can potentially cause anemia. When these polyps are large, they may obstruct the intestine, resulting in the retention of food, liquids, and feces, which can hinder the body's absorption of iron, leading to anemia. Here are some key points:

1. Bleeding

When colon polyps are close to the surface of the rectal mucosa, they can be compressed or irritated by feces, causing bleeding. Smaller polyps may stop bleeding spontaneously, while larger ones may cause intestinal bleeding that is difficult to stop and may require surgical removal.

2. Dark Stools

Large polyps that obstruct the intestine can lead to difficulty in passing stools, prolonging their retention time in the intestine. This can cause the iron in the stools to be oxidized, resulting in inadequate iron absorption and the appearance of dark stools. When the bleeding is minimal, hemostatic drugs such as etamsylate and tranexamic acid can be prescribed under medical supervision, along with blood transfusions if necessary. For significant bleeding, surgical interventions like endoscopic polypectomy are recommended.

3. Altered Bowel Habits

Changes in bowel habits are common symptoms of colon polyps, manifesting as diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. Increased bowel movements may reduce a patient's daily food intake, leading to inadequate nutrient absorption and, subsequently, anemia. Patients are advised to improve their dietary habits and follow medical advice for diarrhea or constipation management, using medications like montmorillonite powder or lactulose oral solution.

4. Other Symptoms

In addition to the above, some patients may experience abdominal pain, bloating, mucus in stools, or stools with pus and blood. If polyps invade surrounding tissues, they can cause rectal intussusception, rectal obstruction, and other diseases, leading to corresponding discomfort. It is crucial for patients with colon polyps to seek prompt medical attention to avoid complications. During treatment, a light diet should be maintained, and spicy or irritating foods should be avoided.