Nasal polyps are noncancerous, soft growths that develop in the nasal passages or sinuses, often leading to discomfort. These growths can cause persistent symptoms such as chronic congestion, breathing difficulties, and recurrent sinus infections, making daily activities more challenging. If you’re experiencing these issues, nasal polyps may be the cause.
Fort Worth ENT & Sinus specializes in diagnosing and treating nasal polyps to improve your health and overall quality of life. Don’t let nasal issues hold you back—schedule a consultation today for nasal polyps treatments!
What are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are common, noncancerous growths that typically form in the nasal passages or sinuses, often near the areas where the sinuses open into the nasal cavity. These teardrop-shaped masses may appear similar to peeled grapes when fully developed.
While nasal polyps can be linked to conditions like allergies or asthma, they may not always cause symptoms, especially when small. However, larger polyps can cause nasal obstruction, leading to mucus buildup and potential sinus infections.
Several factors may increase your risk of developing nasal polyps, including:
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Chronic sinus infections
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sensitivity to specific NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
In some cases, genetics may contribute to the formation of nasal polyps. Specific gene mutations can affect how your nasal tissues respond to inflammation, potentially increasing the likelihood of developing polyps.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are often associated with inflammation and swelling inside the nose and sinuses, a condition known as chronic sinusitis lasting more than 12 weeks. While chronic sinusitis can occur without nasal polyps, the two conditions are frequently linked.
Small nasal polyps may not cause noticeable symptoms, but larger or multiple polyps can lead to nasal blockages. Common signs of chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps include:
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Mucus dripping down the throat (postnasal drip)
- A loss of smell
- A loss of taste
- Facial pain or headaches
- Tooth pain
- Pressure in the forehead and face
- Snoring
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps can form anywhere along the nose lining or sinuses, often in areas where the sinuses open into the nasal cavity. While small polyps may not cause any issues, larger ones can cause nasal obstruction in airways or block sinus drainage.
Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths, typically caused by long-term inflammation in the nose, often triggered by conditions like allergies, asthma, or infections. The exact reason some individuals develop nasal polyps is still not fully understood. However, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing them, including:
- Sensitivity to aspirin
- Asthma
- Chronic (long-term) sinus infections
- Cystic fibrosis
- Hay fever
You may be at a higher risk for nasal polyps if you have any of these conditions.
Treatments for Nasal Polyps
Your doctor will first ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam to determine if you have nasal polyps. They will then use a nasal endoscope with a magnifying lens or camera to closely examine the inside of your nose and sinuses. Further diagnostic tools, such as a laryngoscopy, may assess your upper airway and throat if symptoms like post-nasal drip or difficulty breathing are present.
If these methods don’t provide a clear diagnosis, additional tests may be recommended, such as:
- Imaging tests, including a CT scan, to get detailed images of your sinuses
- Allergy tests to identify if allergies are contributing to inflammation
Medical Treatments
If treatment is necessary, the first approach is usually a nasal corticosteroid spray, which can help shrink or even eliminate nasal polyps in many cases. For some individuals, oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed for a short period. If these treatments are ineffective, your doctor may recommend an injection of dupilumab (Dupixent), a medication designed to target the underlying inflammation.
Unfortunately, nasal polyps can return if the underlying causes persist, such as irritation, allergy symptoms, or infections. As a result, continued use of corticosteroid sprays and regular check-ups with nasal endoscopy may be required.
While medications like antihistamines and decongestants are not typically effective for treating nasal polyps, they may be necessary to manage allergies or infections before using corticosteroids.
Surgical Interventions
Sometimes, nasal polyps can be large enough that medications alone are ineffective. If this happens, surgery might be considered. The procedure typically involves using a small nasal telescope to remove the polyps, and it can be done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home the same day.
Surgery is generally successful, though it may be less effective if you have nasal polyps and asthma or aspirin sensitivity. In such cases, medications may be a more beneficial option.
Tips to Prevent Nasal Polyps Recurrence
To help reduce the chances of developing nasal polyps or experiencing a recurrence after treatment, consider these helpful strategies:
- Manage allergies and asthma: Stick to your treatment plan to keep symptoms under control. If your symptoms are poorly managed, consult your healthcare provider for adjustments.
- Avoid nasal irritants: Tobacco smoke, chemical fumes, and dust can irritate the nose. If you smoke, seek guidance from your healthcare provider on how to quit.
- Wash your hands frequently: Regular hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent infections that can cause irritation and inflammation in the nose and sinuses.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, preventing your nose from becoming dry and irritated. Be sure to clean the device regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Try a nasal rinse: A saltwater nasal spray or rinse can help clear irritants from the nasal passages. Over-the-counter saltwater sprays and nasal wash kits, which include a neti pot or squeeze bottle, are available to help with this process.
These simple steps can assist in maintaining your nasal health and reducing the likelihood of nasal polyp recurrence.
Why Choose Fort Worth ENT for Nasal Polyps Treatments?
When treating nasal polyps, choosing an experienced team of specialists is essential for receiving personalized and effective care. At Fort Worth ENT & Sinus, we offer the following:
- Personalized care: Our skilled ENT specialists take the time to understand your symptoms and work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your specific needs.
- Advanced treatment options: We provide a variety of nasal polyps treatments, including medical and cutting-edge surgical interventions, to help manage nasal polyps effectively.
- A dedicated team: Our team is dedicated to improving your sinus health and quality of life by delivering compassionate and complete care throughout your treatment.
Don’t slow your path to better sinus health. Schedule an appointment with Fort Worth ENT & Sinus today!
Conclusion
Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths that form in the lining of the nose and sinuses. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, a runny nose, postnasal drip, reduced sense of taste and smell, and snoring.
If left untreated, nasal polyps can make breathing difficult, leading to sleep disruptions and fatigue. They can also result in more serious issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea, permanent loss of smell, and the development of mucoceles.
Treatment typically involves a combination of steroids, nasal rinses, and, in more severe cases, surgery.
If you suspect you have nasal polyps, don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Contact Fort Worth ENT & Sinus to schedule your consultation today!
FAQs
Dr. Jeremy Watkins is a Board Certified Otolaryngologist at Fort Worth ENT & Sinus. He practices ear, nose, throat, and sinus care for children and adults. Dr. Watkins received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. He obtained his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and finished his training in Memphis, Tennessee where he completed a general surgery internship, followed by a residency in Otolaryngology at the University of Tennessee.