Nasal Polyps - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is this condition?

Nasal polyps are benign and swollen growths that appear in the nose. Numerous polyps may occur in both sides of the nose. They may become large and numerous enough to cause nasal distention and enlargement of the bony framework, possibly blocking the airway. They are more common in adults than in children and tend to recur.

What causes it?

Nasal polyps usually result from the continuous pressure resulting from a chronic allergy that causes prolonged mucous membrane swelling in the nose and sinuses. Other predisposing factors include chronic sinus infection, chronic rhinitis, and recurrent nasal infections.

What are symptoms for Nasal Polyps?

Nasal blockage is the primary symptom of nasal polyps. The block­age causes loss of the sense of smell, a sensation of fullness in the face, nasal discharge, headache, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms usually mimic those of allergic rhinitis.

How is it diagnosed?

The doctor will use X-rays of the sinuses and nasal passages and will examine the nose with a nasal speculum to help diagnose nasal polyps.

How is it treated?

The doctor will prescribe steroid drugs to be administered either by direct injection into the polyps or by local spray to temporarily shrink the polyps. The doctor may also treat the underlying cause, using antihistamines to control allergy and antibiotics if infection is present. Local application of an astringent shrinks swollen tissue.

Unfortunately, medical treatment alone is rarely effective in alleviating nasal polyps. Consequently, the doctor will surgically remove the polyps, usually using local anesthesia. Laser surgery is being used more frequently for polyp removal.

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