Nasal Polyp Specialist

What are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths that appear on the lining of your sinus and nasal passages. These growths are typically painless and may not cause symptoms, but large polyps or groups of smaller ones can lead to breathing problems.

Nasal polyps may develop when you have a sinus infection or another source of tissue inflammation that lasts for an extended period, typically 12 weeks or more. If left untreated, nasal polyps can cause complications such as asthma flare-ups and an increased risk of sinus infections.

What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are a combination of soft tissue and lack sensation, so you may not notice them. Clusters of multiple polyps or a large polyp may block your sinuses or nasal passages, causing one or more of the following symptoms:

• Facial pain or a headache
• Decreased or nonexistent sense of smell and taste
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Postnasal drip
• A pressure in the forehead or face
• Itchy eyes
• Snoring

Nasal polyp symptoms are similar to those of a sinus infection, allergic rhinitis, or the common cold. If your symptoms persist longer than ten days or cause severe discomfort, you should schedule an appointment at Consultants in Asthma, Allergy & Immunology right away.

Who gets nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps can affect people of all ages, but they are most common in young and middle-aged adults. Having certain conditions may also increase your risk of developing nasal polyps, such as:

• Asthma
• Frequent sinus infections
• Sensitivity to aspirin
• Cystic fibrosis

Any condition that leads to chronic inflammation in your nasal or sinus passages can make you more susceptible to getting nasal polyps.

How do you diagnose and treat nasal polyps?

Your doctor will begin by examining your nasal passages. They may be able to see polyps by looking into your nose with a lighted instrument.

Depending on your condition, they may perform additional diagnostic tests, such as:

• Nasal endoscopy
• CT scan
• Allergy tests

Then, your doctor will develop an individualized treatment plan that best suits your needs. This plan may include treatment for allergies or sinus infection as well as medications to shrink or eliminate the polyps.

If your condition doesn’t improve with conservative treatment, they may recommend surgery (done by an ENT specialist) to remove the polyps.

For relief from nasal polyps, call Consultants in Asthma, Allergy & Immunology or book an appointment online.