Nasal polyps may seem harmless at first, especially if they’re small and don’t cause noticeable issues. However, for many individuals, these soft tissue growths can lead to a wide range of symptoms, some of which may seriously affect day-to-day life.
What causes nasal polyps, and how can you recognize when they’ve become a problem? Read on to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for nasal polyps.
What causes nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that develop in the nasal passages or sinuses, often as a result of long-term inflammation. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, they are frequently associated with conditions that irritate or inflame the lining of the nasal cavities.
Common causes include:
- Chronic inflammation: Long-term swelling and irritation in the nasal passages can promote polyp growth. This inflammation may stem from chronic sinus infections or conditions like allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
- Asthma: Individuals with asthma, a condition that inflames and narrows the airways, are at greater risk of developing nasal polyps.
- Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS): CRS involves prolonged inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages, which can lead to polyp formation.
- Cystic fibrosis: This genetic disorder affects the mucus membranes and can contribute to chronic nasal inflammation, increasing the likelihood of polyps.
- Frequent sinus infections: Repeated sinus infections that cause swelling and irritation can pave the way for nasal polyps to develop.
- Allergies: Reactions to airborne allergens like dust, mold, or pet dander can trigger long-term inflammation in the nasal passages, increasing the risk of polyps.
While these conditions increase your chances of developing nasal polyps, they can also form without a clear underlying cause.
Key symptoms of nasal polyps
Because nasal polyps are soft and often grow in hidden areas, it’s possible to have them without even realizing it. However, as polyps grow larger or multiply, they can start to block nasal passages, leading to a variety of symptoms.
Some of the most common include:
- Persistent congestion or stuffiness: If your nose feels constantly blocked, even when you don’t have a cold, nasal polyps could be to blame.
- Runny nose: A runny nose that lasts for weeks or months may be linked to polyps.
- Postnasal drip: Excess mucus dripping down the back of your throat can be a sign of nasal polyps.
- Reduced sense of smell or taste: Polyps can block airflow and reduce your ability to smell or taste properly.
- Frequent nosebleeds: Some individuals with nasal polyps experience more frequent bleeding from the nose.
- Facial pressure or pain: Nasal polyps can create a feeling of pressure in the forehead, around the eyes, or across the cheeks.
- Headaches: As polyps grow, they may contribute to frequent headaches due to sinus pressure.
- Snoring and sleep issues: Polyps can lead to snoring and, in some cases, sleep apnea, a condition that affects breathing during sleep.
These symptoms can interfere with your quality of life, making everyday tasks uncomfortable. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Are you at risk for nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are more likely to develop in individuals with certain health conditions. The following risk factors can make someone more prone to these growths:
- Asthma
- Chronic sinus infections
- Allergic rhinitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS)
- Frequent respiratory infections
If you have any of these conditions and notice the symptoms described above, it’s a good idea to speak with an ENT specialist for evaluation.
Managing and treating nasal polyps
Treatment for nasal polyps depends on the size of the polyps and the severity of the symptoms. Although surgery can be effective, many people benefit from less invasive treatments first.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that can reduce the size of nasal polyps. These can be administered via nasal sprays, oral tablets, or injections. They work by reducing the inflammation that causes polyps to grow.
Medications for underlying conditions
If your polyps are associated with an infection or another underlying condition, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to address the root cause. Treating infections can sometimes reduce the severity of nasal polyps.
Surgical options
When polyps are large or fail to respond to medication, surgery may be required. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive option where the polyps are removed using tiny instruments inserted into the nasal passages. Thanks to modern techniques, this procedure is typically outpatient, and recovery is faster and less painful than it used to be.
Take action for nasal polyp relief
Nasal polyps can be a source of persistent discomfort, but treatment options are available to help you manage or eliminate them. Whether through medication or surgery, finding the right treatment can help you breathe easier, sleep better, and live without the constant disruptions caused by polyps.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of nasal polyps, contact an ENT specialist for a professional evaluation and treatment plan.
