Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that develop as a result of chronic inflammation within the nasal cavity. They may be associated with allergies, asthma, or recurrent sinus infections.
These soft, painless growths can vary in size and may lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, a reduced sense of smell or breathing difficulties. Although nasal polyps are not harmful in themselves, they can significantly impact quality of life and often require medical management or treatment.
When polyps become large or numerous, they may block normal drainage and airflow.
In addition to nasal obstruction, other common symptoms include:
You should see a primary care physician if you experience persistent nasal congestion or obstruction that does not improve with oral antihistamines or if you have recurring sinus infections.
Additionally, consult a primary care physician if you notice a significant loss of smell, ongoing facial pain, facial pressure, or if symptoms are affecting your quality of life. They should typically start treatment with corticosteroid nasal sprays and review you after you have completed using at least one bottle of the sprays, to see if you have improvement with this treatment. If symptoms are persistent despite the use of corticosteroid nasal sprays, referring to an ENT specialist will then be appropriate.
Complications of nasal polyps may include:
While nasal polyps cannot be prevented entirely, you can reduce the symptoms of it by reducing inflammation and avoiding triggers that irritate the nasal passages. Here are some measures to help reduce the chances of developing nasal polyps or experiencing recurrences:
Nasal polyps develop due to chronic inflammation of the nasal lining, often associated with allergies, asthma, recurring infections or altered immune system responses. This prolonged inflammation can lead to the formation of soft, painless growths within the nasal passages or sinuses.
However, it is not known why some people get nasal polyps, and others do not.
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing nasal polyps, including:
The diagnosis of nasal polyps may involve the following:
Treatment for nasal polyps may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medications and surgical options:
Stop smoking to reduce inflammation and improve nasal health.
Nasal polyps do not usually go away on their own. While small polyps may shrink with medical treatment such as corticosteroid sprays or tablets, larger or persistent polyps often require further intervention, including surgery.
Nasal polyps are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, in rare cases, growths in the nasal cavity may mimic polyps but could be cancerous, which is why proper diagnosis by a medical professional is important.
Yes, nasal polyps can recur even after successful treatment. To reduce the risk of recurrence, it is important to manage underlying conditions such as allergies or asthma and to follow medical advice on using preventative treatments like nasal sprays or saline rinses.
Kim, J. (2023, February 24). Nasal polyps. Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/nasal-polyps
Nasal polyps - ear, nose, and throat disorders. MSD Manual Consumer Version. (n.d.). https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/nose-and-sinus-disorders/nasal-polyps
Nasal polyps. Mass Eye and Ear. (n.d.). https://www.masseyeandear.org/conditions/nasal-polyps?TRILIBIS_EMULATOR_UA=%2C%2C%2C
A review of nasal polyps. (2019). Medical & Clinical Research, 4(11). https://doi.org/10.33140/mcr.04.11.02
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth.
Department
Otorhinolaryngology - Head &Neck Surgery
Department
Otorhinolaryngology- Head & Neck Surgery
Department
Otolaryngology (ENT)
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