What Are Nasal Polyps?

NY SINUS CENTER STAFF SEP 7, 2015 12:00 PM

Nasal polyps are common. According to the National Institute of Health, up to 4% of the population could be affected by them. However, it’s unclear exactly why people get them. One thing we do know? They can make your sinuses go crazy.

A Quick Overview

Nasal polyps are noncancerous, painless growths that appear on the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. Often, they appear where the sinuses and nasal cavity meet.

These grayish polyps are typically grape or teardrop-shaped, and they seem to develop after long-term irritation in the nasal area.

Nasal Polyps Symptoms

Smaller polyps might not cause noticeable symptoms, but larger ones can block the nasal passages, leading to symptoms like:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Postnasal drip
• Sinus headaches
• Itching around the eye area
• Decreased sense of smell
• Dulled sense of taste
• Breathing problems
• Recurring sinus infections (also called chronic sinusitis)

People who have asthma, recurring sinus trouble, hay fever, aspirin sensitivity or cystic fibrosis may be more prone to these polyps.

If you have difficulty breathing or any other symptoms that concern you, be sure to check with a doctor for a personalized diagnosis. To check for polyps, a doctor may visually examine your nose or request a CT scan of the sinuses.

Nasal Polyps Treatment

For people who have nasal polyps, treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms. The treatments options available include:

• Corticosteroid pills
• Steroid nasal sprays
• Allergy medicine
• Surgery (for severe cases or very large polyps. And polyps can return)

If you think you are suffering from this condition, call us for a consultation. Each case is unique, and our expert team can recommend a personalized plan to help keep your symptoms in check.

Similar Posts:

• What You Should Know About Nasal Polyps
• Natural Treatments for Nasal Polyps
• What Are Nasal Polyps? What To Do If You Have Them

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