Nasal polyps are benign growths that occur on the mucosal lining of the nasal passages. They are typically small and though noncancerous can still cause obstructions of the sinuses, leading to congestion, breathing problems and sinus infections. They are very common, occurring in roughly 30 percent of American adults.
Signs & Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Some nasal polyps are tiny and cause few problems. Others produce symptoms such as runny nose, congestion, sneezing, loss of smell and taste, postnasal drip, headache, sinus pain and pressure and snoring. If symptoms persist longer than ten days and are not associated with a cold or allergies, seek medical attention. Even though nasal polyps are benign, if left untreated they can grow large enough to cause serious complications including obstructive sleep apnea, meningitis, blood clots and aneurysms.
Causes of Nasal Polyps
Some people develop nasal polyps randomly, but most often there is some sort of triggering mechanism. Common triggers include asthma, hay fever, chronic sinus infections, cystic fibrosis and sensitivity to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Genetics may also play a role.
A diagnosis is usually made through visual inspection with an otoscope or nasal endoscopy. An imaging test, either a CT scan or MRI, can be useful in determining the size of the polyp and in ruling out more serious growths, such as tumors. Allergy tests may be administered to identify the substance responsible for your symptoms.
Diagnosing and Treating Nasal Polyps
Polyps that occur in children require an evaluation for the presence of cystic fibrosis or a problem with the cilia that line the nose and sinuses. Cilia are tiny, hair-like structures that help remove irritants from the air we breathe.
Medical treatment for nasal polyps may include:
- Antibiotics
- Steroids
- Medicated nasal sprays
- Nasal saline lavages / Nasal irrigation
- Treatment of allergies and/or asthma (if present)
If the nasal polyps are not causing any symptoms, then no treatment is required, except maybe a nasal steroid spray, which keeps the polyps from growing. Nasal polyps that occur on both sides of the nose rarely have the potential to be cancerous. Nasal polyps may be removed if:
- They are completely blocking the nose
- Are associated with persistent or recurrent sinus infections
- Medication does not eliminate symptoms
Due to the chronic inflammatory nature of nasal polyps, over 80% of nasal polyps will return after they are removed. Continuing medical therapy will prevent polyps from growing. Patients with a history of nasal polyps should follow up with their physicians about every 6 to 12 months. Because of the tendency of nasal polyps to recur, it is not uncommon for patients with nasal polyps to require revision sinus surgery at some point in their lives. Frequently, with directed medical therapy and regular follow-up, the need for revision sinus surgery can be dramatically reduced.
At the Raleigh Capitol Sinus & Allergy Center, our experienced surgeons will promptly evaluate your condition. After a thorough evaluation, our surgeons will discuss treatment options with you and help you decide which treatment option is best for you. If surgery is needed, our surgeons will use the latest techniques to safely and effectively perform your surgery.