What are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous, teardrop-shaped growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation. They are usually painless but can cause nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, and other sinus-related symptoms when large or numerous.

What causes nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps often result from long-term inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses. Common associated conditions include:

• Chronic sinusitis (long-lasting sinus inflammation)
• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Aspirin sensitivity (aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease)
• Cystic fibrosis (a genetic condition)
• Immune system disorders

Not everyone with these conditions will develop polyps, and the exact reason why some people get them and others don’t is still not fully understood.

What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?
Small nasal polyps may not cause any symptoms. Larger or multiple polyps can lead to:

• Persistent nasal congestion or blockage
• Runny nose (rhinorrhea)
• Postnasal drip (mucus drainage down the throat)
• Reduced or lost sense of smell (anosmia)
• Decreased sense of taste
• Facial pressure or pain
• Snoring
• Frequent sinus infections
• Headache (in some cases)

How are nasal polyps diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically includes:

• Physical exam with a lighted instrument
• Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to look inside the nasal passages
• Imaging tests like a CT scan to assess the size and location of polyps and check for sinus blockage
• Allergy testing or cystic fibrosis testing in children with multiple polyps

How are nasal polyps treated?
Treatment aims to reduce the size of the polyps or eliminate them and manage the underlying inflammation.

1. Medications:

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone): Reduce inflammation and shrink polyps
• Oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone): For more severe symptoms, used short-term
• Biologic therapy (e.g., dupilumab): For patients with severe nasal polyps and associated asthma or chronic rhinosinusitis
• Antihistamines or decongestants: If allergies contribute to symptoms
• Nasal saline rinses: To keep passages clear and reduce irritation

2. Surgery: If medications fail, endoscopic sinus surgery may be needed to remove the polyps and open blocked sinuses. Surgery improves symptoms but does not cure the underlying cause, so polyps can return.

Can nasal polyps come back after treatment?
Yes, nasal polyps frequently recur, especially in people with ongoing inflammation or asthma. Regular follow-up and maintenance therapy are often needed.

What are the complications of nasal polyps?
If left untreated, nasal polyps can lead to:

• Chronic or recurrent sinus infections
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Asthma flare-ups
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Deformity of the sinus structures in rare, long-standing cases

How can nasal polyps be prevented or managed long-term?

• Manage allergies and asthma effectively
• Use corticosteroid nasal sprays regularly as prescribed
• Avoid nasal irritants (smoke, strong odors, pollutants)
• Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist
• Rinse the nose regularly with saline solution

When should I see a doctor?
You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent nasal blockage
• Loss of smell
• Recurrent sinus infections
• Symptoms that do not improve with over-the-counter treatments