What Causes Nasal Polyps: Symptoms, and How to Treat Effectively

Post Date: 8/25/2023

 

Nasal polyps are benign growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. While they are non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort and difficulty in breathing.

They are soft, non-cancerous growths that occur on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They often look like teardrops or grapes and can vary in size. These growths can occur individually or in clusters, leading to symptoms that can impact a person's quality of life.

It's good to know the underlying causes of nasal polyps and their symptoms, and this provides insights into effective treatment methods. If you're tired of the discomfort these growths cause and are seeking ways to find relief, you're in the right place. It is possible to overcome all your problems with Prof. Dr. Selçuk İnanlı, who performs the safest rhinoplasty surgeries in Istanbul.

 

Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps can lead to various symptoms that affect the nasal passages, sinuses, and even the sense of smell. Some common signs include:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Decreased sense of smell and taste
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Snoring
  • Headaches
  • Itchy eyes and throat

If you suspect nasal polyps, you should consult a specialist immediately. They will perform a physical examination using an endoscope and may recommend imaging tests like CT scans to confirm the diagnosis.

 

What Causes Nasal Polyps?

While the exact cause of nasal polyps isn't always clear, several factors are believed to contribute to their development. Chronic inflammation of your nasal passages and sinuses is considered a primary factor. Conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis (long-lasting inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses) can lead to the growth of polyps. Inflammation can be triggered by allergies, infections, or other irritants.

When it comes to allergies, particularly those with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), you are more susceptible to developing nasal polyps. Allergic reactions can lead to prolonged inflammation, which in turn can contribute to polyp formation. Besides, there is a strong link between asthma and nasal polyps. Many people with this problem also have asthma, and both conditions seem to share some underlying inflammatory mechanisms.

On the other hand, there may be a genetic predisposition to developing nasal polyps. If you have a family history of this issue, you might be at a higher risk of developing them yourself. This genetic disorder also affects the production of mucus and can lead to thick and sticky mucus in your airways. If you have cystic fibrosis, you can have a higher risk of developing a problem due to mucus-related issues.

Lastly, some individuals with asthma and nasal polyps can experience severe reactions to aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This condition is known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) or Samter's triad. You should also be careful about this situation.

 

Effective Treatment Options For Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps treatment options encompass various approaches. Medications play a central role, with corticosteroid nasal sprays being a frontline choice due to their ability to curb your inflammation and hinder your issue's growth. In cases of advanced levels or larger ones, short-term oral corticosteroids might be considered, although caution is exercised due to potential side effects. Leukotriene modifiers, designed to manage inflammation, can complement corticosteroid use. Nasal irrigation through saline rinses stands as another method, aiding in your mucus clearance and alleviating inflammation.

For those influenced by allergies contributing to polyp development, strategies like allergen avoidance and appropriate medication, including antihistamines, are emphasized. Surgical intervention, particularly endoscopic sinus surgery, comes into play for substantial or persistent ones, if you also have that. This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of an endoscope to shrink or eliminate polyps and enhance sinus drainage. Biologics, a more recent treatment avenue, target specific inflammatory molecules and are usually reserved for severe cases or when conventional treatments prove inadequate.

Aspirin desensitization therapy is another tailored for people with aspirin sensitivity and Samter's triad, entailing gradual exposure to aspirin to diminish sensitivity. Implementing lifestyle changes, such as employing humidifiers to maintain nasal moisture, reducing exposure to irritants like pollutants, and adopting a nourishing diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients, all contribute to holistic management. Keeping your post-treatment appointments with healthcare providers is crucial to facilitating your doctor's follow-up, possible treatment adjustments, and the creation of a long-term management plan optimized to your individual needs.

By having a consultation at Prof. Dr. Selçuk İnanlı's clinic, you can find out the cause of your problems and determine the most appropriate treatment method for their solution. All you need to do is to contact us via the contact information.

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