Nasal polyps are small masses of flesh that grow in the mucosal lining of the nose and in the sinuses. In spite of their appearance and location, nasal polyps are not actually cause for alarm in general since they are non-cancerous. They do, however, cause some inconvenience, particularly if the polyp becomes inflamed or infected or if it starts to bleed.

The cause that triggers the development of nasal polyps is not well understood. What is known is that nasal polyps often appear in people who have cystic fibrosis, asthma and nasal allergies. Some individuals may also be at a higher risk of developing them than others. People who have rhinitis, for example, are more likely to develop polyps in the nose. Age and genetics are also risk factors, since the condition usually appears in people aged 40 and above and in those who have a family history.

Polyps may also be caused by viral or bacterial infection, an issue that can be traced to bad hygiene and environmental factors. Patients who are frequently exposed to irritants in the environment are also at high risk of developing the condition.

Nasal Polyps Symptoms

Because they are hidden from view, nasal polyps can sometimes be difficult even for the patient to detect. There are symptoms that manifest due to the condition, however. These include:

- Obstruction of the nasal passageways and sinuses, particularly where sinus polyps are present
- Chronic, almost permanent sinusitis characterized by a runny, stuffy nose and postnasal drip
- Headache and pain in certain areas of the face
- Gradual loss of sense of smell and as a result, a gradual decline in the sense of taste as well
- Snoring and sleep apnea

It is also possible for patients with severe cases or cystic fibrosis to develop double vision or facial deformity.

Nasal Polyps Treatment

The condition is best treated after proper diagnosis by a medical professional. The doctor may perform a physical exam such as a nasal endoscopy or have the patient undergo certain tests such as a CT-scan or a test to determine allergies and cystic fibrosis.

For mild cases, the patient may be prescribed with a treatment using medicated drops or sprays. Medication usually contains steroids that aid in reducing any inflammation and shrinking the size of the polyp. The medication is applied (dropped or sprayed) onto the nasal passageway to allow the medication to get to work. Improvement in the symptoms often occurs after a few days.

For bigger polyps or cluster forms, the patient may have to use oral steroid medications. A course of treatment usually lasts for one to two weeks or more, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Because oral steroids cause certain side effects, it is important that the progress of the patient is monitored by the doctor during treatment.

Very large nasal polyps that cause severe obstruction or those that bleed and have not responded to oral or topical medication may require surgical removal through a polypectomy or an endoscopic surgery of the affected sinus. Either procedure lasts at least 45 minutes and requires an anesthetic to keep the patient comfortable.

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Tags: nasal polyps, nasal polyps symptoms, nasal polyps treatment, sinus polyps