What Are Gastric Polyps?

Gastric polyps are growths that form on the inside lining of the stomach. Most are harmless and may never cause symptoms. In some cases, however, certain types of polyps can develop into stomach cancer over time.

These growths are often found during an upper endoscopy performed for another digestive concern. Understanding the type of polyp is important because it helps guide treatment and follow-up care.

Several conditions and risk factors can contribute to gastric polyps, including:

• Chronic inflammation of the stomach
• H. pylori infection
• Long-term use of acid-reducing medications called proton pump inhibitors
• Pernicious anemia
• Stomach ulcers
• Smoking
• Family history of certain digestive tract conditions

Some polyps are linked to aging or inherited genetic syndromes that increase the risk of growths throughout the digestive system.

Symptoms

Many people with gastric polyps do not notice any symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they are often related to larger polyps or irritation in the stomach lining.

Possible symptoms include:

• Stomach or upper abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating or feeling full quickly
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in the stool or vomiting blood
• Fatigue caused by anemia from slow bleeding

How Is It Diagnosed?

Gastric polyps are most commonly diagnosed during an upper endoscopy. During this procedure, a thin flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the inside of the stomach.

If a polyp is found, your provider may take a small tissue sample called a biopsy. The biopsy helps determine the type of polyp and whether there are any abnormal or precancerous cells present. In some situations, imaging studies such as an upper GI series may also identify stomach polyps.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on the type, size, and appearance of the polyp, along with your overall risk for stomach cancer.

Small polyps with a low cancer risk may only need regular monitoring with follow-up endoscopies. If the polyp is large, causing symptoms, or contains abnormal cells, it is often removed during an endoscopy.

Some people may also need treatment for underlying conditions, such as H. pylori infection or chronic stomach inflammation. In rare cases where cancer is present or a polyp cannot be safely removed endoscopically, surgery may be recommended.

Most people recover quickly after endoscopic treatment and can return to normal activities within a short time. Ongoing follow-up may be needed to watch for new or returning polyps.