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Rectal Polyps

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in identifying and treating rectal polyps—small rectal-lining growths that can become cancerous. Using comprehensive advanced screenings, techniques, and personalized lifestyle guidance, he ensures early detection and effective prevention for optimal colon health.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Nghia Nguyen

About the Expert

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Family history of colorectal polyps or colon cancer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Smoking
  • High-fat, low-fiber diet

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in the early stages
  • Blood on toilet paper or in the stool
  • Mucus in the stool
  • Changes in bowel habits (frequency, consistency)
  • Abdominal pain or cramping

Our Team offers a full range of care for rectal polyps at GastroDoxs in Houston.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Reduce consumption of red and processed meats
  • Quit smoking to lower overall risk
  • Limit alcohol use
  • Maintain regular exercise to support digestive health

2. Medications and Supplements

  • Consider low-dose aspirin when appropriate to reduce polyp formation
  • Supplement with calcium or vitamin D if indicated by your health profile
  • Individualized review of any other preventive medications

3. Procedures

  • Polypectomy during colonoscopy for immediate removal of small growths
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection for larger or flat polyps
  • Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) for select cases
  • Biopsy and histologic analysis when needed to guide further care
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for rectal polyps.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Reduce consumption of red and processed meats
  • Engage in regular physical activity, at least 30 minutes daily
  • Stop smoking and limit alcohol use

2. Medications and Monitoring

  • Regular surveillance colonoscopies to monitor polyp recurrence
  • Medical management of associated symptoms like rectal bleeding or discomfort
  • Stool-based tests or imaging if colonoscopy is not immediately feasible

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Polypectomy performed during routine colonoscopy
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for larger or flat polyps
  • Surgical removal for high-risk or difficult-to-access polyps
Dr Nghia Nguyen

About the Author

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rectal polyps cancerous?

Most are not. But some can turn into cancer. Removing them early lowers your risk.

How often should I be screened?

Most people over 50 need a colonoscopy every 10 years. You may need more frequent tests if you have higher risk.

Can I prevent polyps with diet?

Eating healthy helps. But screenings are still needed, even with a good diet.

How do I know if it's a polyp or something else?

You may not be able to tell. Only a doctor can know for sure after testing.

Do I need anesthesia to remove a polyp?

Yes. Most procedures use sedation to keep you relaxed and pain-free.

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