Nasal polyps are common, often developing without causing significant symptoms when they remain small. These benign, teardrop-shaped growths form along the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. While many people may not notice them, larger polyps or clusters of polyps can lead to complications that necessitate surgical removal.
How to identify nasal polyps: symptoms and signs
Nasal polyps are benign, but they can cause significant discomfort and health issues depending on their size and number. Recognizing the symptoms associated with nasal polyps is crucial in determining whether surgical intervention may be necessary.
Symptoms of nasal polyps include:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Reduced or lost sense of smell or taste
- Pressure or pain in the sinuses
- Frequent sinus infections (chronic sinusitis)
- Continuous coughing
- Snoring during sleep
- Postnasal drip
- Headaches or facial discomfort
While these symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions like the common cold or allergies, the presence of multiple symptoms, particularly when persistent, may point to nasal polyps. If you notice these symptoms, consulting an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist is essential to verify the diagnosis and discuss potential treatments.
Treatment options for nasal polyps
Treatment for nasal polyps usually begins with conservative approaches, such as medications. After diagnosing nasal polyps, an ENT specialist may prescribe corticosteroid nasal sprays, oral steroids, or even antibiotics to reduce inflammation and address any underlying infections. These treatments can often shrink the polyps and alleviate symptoms.
However, when medical treatments fail to produce desired results or if the polyps are causing significant obstruction or other complications, surgical removal may be recommended.
Types of nasal polyp surgery
The specific type of surgery depends on the size, location, and number of polyps.
- In-Office Polypectomy: If the polyps are small and easily accessible near the nasal opening, the ENT specialist may perform an in-office procedure using a microdebrider or a nasal polypectomy grasper. This procedure is typically quick, and the patient can return home the same day.
- Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: For larger polyps or those located deeper within the nasal passages or sinuses, surgery is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center under general anesthesia. This procedure, known as endoscopic sinus surgery, involves the use of a slender tube equipped with a camera (endoscope) that allows the surgeon to view and remove the polyps without making any external incisions.
In both cases, the surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils, making it less invasive with a quicker recovery time compared to other surgical procedures.
Recovery and postoperative care
Recovery from nasal polyp surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure and individual patient factors. After surgery, some nasal bleeding is normal and may continue for up to two weeks. While many patients start to feel better within a few days, a full recovery usually takes about a week.
The success of nasal polyp surgery is generally high, with many patients experiencing significant relief from symptoms. However, there is a possibility that nasal polyps may recur, particularly in individuals with underlying conditions like chronic sinusitis or allergic rhinitis.
To prevent recurrence, your ENT specialist may recommend continued use of nasal sprays or other medications to manage inflammation. Regular follow-up visits are also important to monitor your nasal passages and ensure that polyps do not return.
Find an ENT specialist near you
If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be related to nasal polyps, it’s important to seek a consultation with an ENT specialist. Proper management and timely intervention can significantly improve your quality of life, helping you breathe easier and enjoy a better sense of smell and taste.
Find an ENT specialist near you to schedule a consultation and find relief.