Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft swellings that arise from the normal mucous membrane lining the inside of the nose and sinuses. Small polyps may not cause any symptoms or need treatment.

However, when polyps grow larger or multiple polyps develop, they can block airflow or sinus drainage pathways, which may lead to persistent nasal problems or sinusitis.

Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors

Nasal polyps may cause one or more of the following:

Stuffy or blocked nose, difficulty breathing through the nose
Runny nose or post-nasal drip (mucus draining down the throat)
Reduced or loss of sense of smell (and sometimes taste)
Facial pressure, pain, or a feeling of fullness around the cheeks, forehead or between the eyes
Snoring or sleep disturbances (in some cases)
Frequent or recurrent sinus infections due to impaired sinus drainage

Some people with mild polyps may not notice any symptoms.

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact reason why nasal polyps develop is often unclear. However, they are commonly associated with long-term inflammation of the nasal or sinus lining.

Some factors or conditions linked with nasal polyps include:

Chronic sinus inflammation or recurrent sinus infections (sinusitis)
Allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis or sensitivity to substances such as aspirin in some individuals
Asthma (in some patients) appears to increase the risk
Environmental irritants or triggers such as dust, fumes, chemicals, pollution, or smoke may worsen inflammation and contribute to polyp development

Because polyps tend to arise from underlying inflammation, managing contributing factors such as allergies or environmental triggers may help reduce flare-ups.

Diagnosis

If nasal polyp is suspected, your ENT specialist may recommend:

A detailed clinical history and physical examination to evaluate symptoms and look for signs such as nasal obstruction or discharge.
A nasal endoscopy (lighted scope inserted into the nose) to visualise polyps directly inside the nasal passages or sinuses.
Imaging studies (e.g. CT scan) if deeper sinus areas are involved or to plan treatment, especially before surgery.
Allergy testing if allergy is suspected as a contributing factor.

A careful evaluation is important because polyps can be associated with other conditions, and treatment is tailored to each patient’s situation.

Treatment Options

1. Medical Treatment

Medical therapy is usually the first step, especially for small or moderate polyps and for patients who wish to avoid surgery.

Common options include:

Antihistamines – modern, non-sedating options to relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose
Decongestants – short-term relief for congestion (nasal or oral)
Possible additions: nasal steroid sprays for inflammation, leukotriene antagonists like montelukast (if indicated)

Medical treatment can control symptoms and, in some cases, shrink or eliminate polyps.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered when polyps do not respond to medical therapy, or when they are large, obstructive, or associated with recurrent sinus infections or other complications.

Typically, surgery is done using endoscopic techniques via the nostrils, without external incisions.
The polyps and diseased tissue are removed and sinus drainage pathways are restored to improve airflow and sinus drainage.

After surgery, ongoing care (such as nasal rinses or nasal steroids) may be needed to reduce recurrence risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are nasal polyps cancerous?

No. Nasal polyps are benign growths that develop from the lining of the nose or sinuses. They are noncancerous, although an ENT specialist may recommend further checks if the appearance is unusual or if symptoms are present on only one side.

2. Can nasal polyps go away with medication?

Small polyps may shrink with medical treatment such as nasal steroid sprays. Larger polyps usually do not disappear completely without additional therapy. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by an ENT specialist.

3. What causes nasal polyps to form?

They are linked to long-term inflammation in the nose and sinuses. Contributing factors may include allergies, chronic sinusitis, asthma, or irritants such as dust, pollution, or smoke.

4. Do all patients with nasal polyps need surgery?

No. Many patients respond well to medication. Surgery is considered only when symptoms continue despite adequate medical treatment or when the polyps are large or obstructive.

5. Can nasal polyps come back after treatment?

Yes, polyps can recur, especially in individuals with ongoing sinus inflammation or allergies. Regular follow-up, nasal rinses, and preventive treatment may help reduce recurrence.

What to Do If You Suspect Nasal Polyps

Early evaluation helps ensure correct diagnosis and timely treatment. If you have persistent nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, recurrent sinus infections, or other symptoms described above that last despite over-the-counter remedies or allergy treatment, consider booking a consultation with us.