Nasal Polyps, benign (non-cancerous) growths in the mucous membrane lining the nose and sinuses (small air-filled cavities within the facial bones). They occur when the mucous membranes in the nose or sinuses become inflamed and swollen due to prolonged inflammation. If the polyps grow excessively, they can block the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to sinus infections and respiratory problems.

Who Gets Nasal Polyps?

Anyone with a condition that triggers nasal inflammation can develop nasal polyps. These conditions include:

• Asthma
• Allergy to aspirin or other pain relievers
• Cystic fibrosis
• Allergic rhinitis (a condition that causes a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing)
• Chronic sinus infections
• Allergic fungal sinusitis (allergy to airborne fungi)
• Other acute or chronic infections

What Causes Nasal Polyps?

The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by several factors. Nasal polyps have been associated with allergies, certain genetic (inherited) disorders, and asthma. It is believed that inflammation leads to fluid accumulation in the mucous membranes, which eventually expands and forms fluid-filled polyps.

What Are the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps?

The symptoms of nasal polyps include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Postnasal drip
• Decreased or loss of sense of smell and taste
• Headache
• Pressure sensation in the sinuses
• Snoring at night

How Are Nasal Polyps Treated?

Nasal polyps cannot be cured but can be managed with medications. The most commonly used medications for treating nasal polyps are corticosteroid nasal sprays and pills. If bacterial sinus infections are present, antibiotics may be prescribed.

If the symptoms worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary. The type of surgery depends on the severity of the polyps. Endoscopic sinus surgery is the most common procedure performed, in which the surgeon uses an endoscope (a small, thin tube with a light and video camera) along with other instruments to examine the inside of the nose, remove nasal polyps, and open up the sinus cavities.

What Are the Complications of Nasal Polyps?

Complications of nasal polyps include:

• Chronic or recurrent sinus infections
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Exacerbation of asthma
• Double vision (in severe cases)

How Can Nasal Polyps Be Prevented?

It is not possible to prevent polyps in everyone, but some measures can be taken to reduce the risk:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of allergy and asthma medications.
• Avoid inhaling allergens or irritants that can cause inflammation in the nasal and sinus cavities.
• Maintain proper hygiene.
• Use a humidifier in your home to help moisturize your nasal passages.
• Perform nasal saline rinses or use nasal sprays to remove allergens or other irritants that may contribute to nasal polyps.