Understanding Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. They result from chronic inflammation and are often associated with asthma, allergies, recurrent infections, or aspirin sensitivity.
Small polyps may cause no symptoms. Larger polyps can block nasal passages, make breathing difficult, reduce your sense of smell, and lead to frequent sinus infections. Treatment aims to reduce or eliminate polyps and address the underlying cause.
Common Symptoms
Diagnosis
Nasal Endoscopy
A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera allows us to see inside your nasal passages and sinuses. This directly visualizes polyps and their location.
CT Scan
A CT scan of the sinuses shows the extent of polyps, the involvement of different sinus cavities, and helps plan treatment or surgery.
Treatment Options
Medical Management
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays to shrink polyps and reduce inflammation
- Oral corticosteroids for severe cases (short-term)
- Allergy management to address underlying triggers
- Biologic medications for severe, recurrent polyps with type 2 inflammation
Surgical Treatment
When polyps are large, cause significant symptoms, or do not respond to medical treatment, endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) can remove them and improve sinus drainage.
- Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
- Significant improvement in breathing and smell
- Ongoing medical management to prevent recurrence