All About Nasal Polyps:
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options in San Antonio
Chronic nasal congestion can be frustrating, especially when it prevents you from breathing easily through your nose. Often, nasal congestion is caused by issues like sinus inflammation, sinus infections, allergies, asthma, and sinusitis. However, one lesser-known cause of chronic nasal congestion is nasal polyps. These soft, painless growths can obstruct your nasal passages, making it hard to breathe and often leading to mucus buildup and increased sinus infections.
Nasal Polyps: What Are They?
Nasal polyps are noncancerous, soft growths that develop in the nasal and sinus linings. They can form in one or both nostrils and might appear individually or in clusters. Typically, nasal polyps are teardrop-shaped when small, but they grow larger and resemble grapes over time. The color of nasal polyps can vary, often appearing gray, pink, or yellow.
The Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps can present a range of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose due to congestion
- Facial pain and pressure
- Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat)
- Pain or pressure in the teeth
- Headaches
- Runny nose
- Decreased sense of smell
- Itchy eyes or face
- Loud snoring
- Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with an ENT specialist in San Antonio for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
Although medical experts haven’t pinpointed the exact cause of nasal polyps, certain underlying conditions can increase the likelihood of developing them. These conditions include:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sensitivity to aspirin
If you live in San Antonio, you may be more familiar with local allergens like pollen from oak trees or mold during the humid months, both of which can contribute to polyps.
How to Get a Diagnosis in San Antonio
An ENT specialist in San Antonio can accurately diagnose nasal polyps by performing a physical exam and using a thin, tube-like instrument called an endoscope, which is equipped with a camera. This allows your doctor to view the inside of your nasal cavity. In some cases, your doctor might recommend a CT scan to locate and assess the size of the polyps.
It’s also important to provide details about your symptoms and medical history to help your doctor arrive at the right diagnosis.
Nasal Polyps Treatment Options
The treatment for nasal polyps depends on the severity of your condition. Here are some options that may be recommended by an ENT specialist at San Antonio Breathe Free:
- Allergy Medication: If allergies are contributing to nasal polyps, your doctor may recommend allergy medications to manage inflammation and shrink the polyps.
- Oral Steroids: Oral steroids can reduce the inflammation in the sinus passages, encouraging the shrinkage of polyps and improving mucus drainage.
- Steroid Nasal Sprays: These sprays help break down mucus buildup, clear blockages, and even shrink nasal polyps.
- Antibiotics and Antihistamines: If your polyps are caused by bacterial infections or allergies, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antihistamines to manage your symptoms.
Polypectomy: For larger polyps, a polypectomy may be necessary to remove the growths and clear the passages.
San Antonio Breathe Free: Your Local Experts in Nasal Polyp Treatment
At San Antonio Breathe Free, we are dedicated to providing expert care for those suffering from nasal polyps and other sinus conditions. Our team of ENT specialists in San Antonio can help you find the right treatment plan to manage your nasal polyps and restore your ability to breathe freely.
If you’re struggling with nasal congestion or suspect you have nasal polyps, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experts and start your journey toward better sinus health. You can also learn more about our services here.
