Nasal polyps are the non-cancerous growth of the lining of your nose or sinuses. They are soft, painless, and they appear like grapes or teardrops. Smaller nasal polyps do not cause any problems, but large nasal polyps can cause breathing problems as they will block nasal passages.
Nasal polyps are most commonly seen in adults, but can affect people of any age group. Nasal polyps can be treated with medications, and in a few cases, surgery might be required.
Possible Signs and Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft and they do not have any sensation. Hence, if the nasal polyps are small, you may not have any signs and symptoms. But, if there are several nasal polyps or if they are large, it can block nasal passage and can show symptoms.
The following are the common signs and symptoms:
- Headache
- A runny nose
- Decreased sense of smell and taste
- Facial pain
- Postnasal drip where you will have a feeling of clearing your throat
- Nosebleed
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Trouble while breathing
- Itching around eyes
Why Do Nasal Polyps Occur?
The exact reason for nasal polyps is still unknown and scientists are trying to find out the reasons. The reasons for long-term inflammation, irritation, swelling, and how they trigger nasal polyps are also unknown. It is expected to cause due to the inflammation of nasal mucosa tissue. The mucosa is a very wet layer responsible for protecting your nose and sinuses. When an infection occurs, it becomes swollen and produces fluid which in turn form nasal polyps.
A few people may even develop nasal polyps without any history of nasal problems. The following factors can trigger nasal polyps:
- Asthma
- Frequent sinus infections
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sensitivity to aspirin
- Vitamin D deficiency
Apart from the above-mentioned factors, a family history of nasal polyps can also be a cause. This is because of the variations in genetics related to the functioning of the immune system.
How to Diagnose Nasal Polyps?
Your doctor will initially conduct a physical examination and will ask about your signs and symptoms. A doctor can view the nasal polyps by looking into nasal passages using an instrument called a nasoscope or otoscope. The doctor may also conduct other tests such as:
- Nasal endoscopy: It lets your doctor view the inside of your nose and sinuses in detail using a magnifying lens.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans can help to know the size and location of polyps. It also lets your doctor determine the amount of swelling and inflammation. Imaging tests also help to eliminate other reasons that cause nasal blockages.
- Allergy tests: These tests show if any allergies exist that cause inflammation.
- Blood test: A blood test is used to determine the amount of Vitamin D in your body as it is related to nasal polyps.
- Test for cystic fibrosis: If nasal polyps occur at a young age, a cystic fibrosis test is conducted to know any inherited conditions that affect glands producing mucus, tears, and saliva.
Treatment for Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are a challenging condition as it is difficult to cure completely. You should closely work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan focusing on reducing symptoms, allergies and inflammation. The treatment mainly focuses on reducing the size of nasal polyps or completely removing them.
The treatment options include:
- Medications to reduce inflammation and to make nasal polyps disappear.
- Spraying nasal steroids to eliminate polyps and reduce symptoms
- If nasal sprays do not work, oral steroids can be used
- If drugs do not treat polyps, endoscopic surgery is performed to shrink polyps
Visit Klavo Clinics for Effective Nasal Polyps Treatment
If you have any signs of nasal polyps, visit Klavo Clinics today. We provide international standards of healthcare, with advanced diagnostic & treatment facilities in Hyderabad. We have qualified and senior speciality doctors who can treat different nasal problems including nasal polyps. We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure the safety of our patients. To discuss your condition, call us and schedule your appointment.