Nasal polyps are small, painless, non-cancerous growths that form in the lining of the nose or sinuses. Polyps vary in size, ranging from small teardrops to large grapes.
Polyps may not cause symptoms when they are small; however, as they grow larger, they can lead to health problems, including:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Facial pain
- Runny nose
- Postnasal drip
- Itching around the eyes
- Loss of smell or decreased sense of smell
- Headaches
- Loss of taste
- Nasal congestion
- Snoring
- Sinus pressure
- Nose bleeds
Larger polyps can lead to complications such as sleep apnea, frequent asthma attacks, or recurrent sinus infections.
The causes of nasal polyps are unknown, but it is believed that long-term inflammation or irritation plays a role.
While anyone can develop polyps, they are more common in people who:
- Have asthma
- Have chronic sinus infections
- Have cystic fibrosis
- Are hypersensitive to certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Have chronic rhinitis
You should see your doctor if you are experiencing persistent symptoms associated with nasal polyps. To diagnose this condition, your doctor may perform a physical examination. Your doctor may also order tests such as a nasal endoscopy, CT scan, MRI, allergy test, or blood test.
Treatment for nasal polyps can include medications such as nasal steroids, oral steroids, or biologic medications. If medications are not effective, you may require surgery to remove the polyps.
To make an appointment with an ENT doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7110.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.