Our approach goes beyond typical treatments, focusing on personalized care that helps you manage nasal health issues and find more consistent relief.
Nasal Polyps
What is a Nasal Polyp?
A nasal polyp is a soft, noncancerous growth that develops in the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. They can vary in size and often appear as teardrop-shaped swellings. While nasal polyps are not usually serious, they can lead to various symptoms and complications if left untreated. Below, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for nasal polyps.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are often associated with chronic inflammation in the nasal mucosa. Several factors may increase the risk of developing nasal polyps:
- Chronic Sinusitis: Long-term sinus infections can lead to the formation of polyps.
- Asthma: Individuals with asthma are more likely to develop nasal polyps.
- Allergies: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) may contribute to their formation.
- Sensitivity to Aspirin: Some people who are sensitive to aspirin may also have nasal polyps.
- Cystic Fibrosis: This genetic disorder can lead to the development of nasal polyps in children.
Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Many people with nasal polyps may not realize they have them, especially if the polyps are small. However, larger polyps or clusters can cause noticeable symptoms, including:
- Blocked Nose: Difficulty breathing through the nose due to obstruction.
- Runny Nose: Persistent nasal discharge that may be clear or colored.
- Postnasal Drip: Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, leading to irritation.
- Reduced Sense of Smell or Taste: A decrease in the ability to smell or taste food.
- Facial Pain or Pressure: Discomfort or pressure around the cheeks, forehead, or eyes.
- Snoring: Increased snoring due to blocked airways during sleep.
These symptoms can mimic those of a common cold but persist longer than typical cold symptoms.
Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps
Treatment for nasal polyps often begins with medications aimed at reducing inflammation and shrinking the growths:
- Nasal Steroid Sprays: These sprays help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and can shrink polyps over time.
- Oral Steroids: For more severe cases, short courses of oral steroids may be prescribed to reduce swelling quickly.
- Saline Rinses: Using saline solutions can help clear mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.
If medications do not provide relief after several weeks, surgical options may be considered:
Surgical Removal
Surgical removal is often recommended for individuals with large or persistent nasal polyps that do not respond to medication. The most common procedure is called polypectomy, where the surgeon removes the polyps through the nostrils using specialized instruments. Surgery can significantly improve symptoms for many patients, though nasal polyps can return over time and may require follow-up treatment to keep symptoms under control.
Improving Your Respiratory Health
Nasal polyps can do more than cause nasal symptoms, they may impact your breathing and overall comfort. At San Antonio Breathe Free, we offer more than treatment; we help you understand and improve your nasal and sinus health.
Our approach goes beyond managing symptoms, we aim to help you breathe better by taking a comprehensive look at your nasal health. We focus on the whole picture, addressing both immediate concerns and contributing factors that may affect your breathing over time.
Nasal polyps don’t have to limit you. With the right care, your breathing can improve, helping you feel more comfortable and at ease.
