Nasal polyps are small growths along the nasal passage that are usually painless and non-cancerous. However, they may cause chronic sinusitis, which leads to a reduced sense of smell and breathing trouble. That being said, this condition can be easily managed with treatment. Let’s look at the causes of nasal polyps and common treatments for the condition.
What are the causes?
Nasal polyps can affect men and women at any age but are most common among the younger generation. Knowing the causes of nasal polyps and common treatments allows patients to manage the condition in the early stages. These polyps develop in the nasal mucosa, and when the mucus gets infected, it swells up, leading to the development of a fluid that accumulates and forms a polyp. The exact cause for this swelling is not clear, but certain factors can add to the risk of developing nasal polyps:
- Family medical history of conditions affecting the immune system
- Sensitivity to aspirin and other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Deficiency of vitamin D
- Churg-Strauss syndrome
- Recurring sinus infections
How can nasal polyps be treated?
Treatment for nasal polyps is aimed at eliminating the polyps by reducing their size. It is important to know the causes of nasal polyps and the common treatments available to facilitate early diagnosis and prevent discomfort.
- Nasal spray
Corticosteroids are available in the form of nasal sprays that are often prescribed to treat this condition. They help reduce inflammation and irritation and shrink the polyp. In many cases, this method offers only temporary relief, and the symptoms may restart resurfacing once the patient stops using the nasal spray. - Oral/injectable corticosteroids
If the nasal spray does not help, corticosteroids may be prescribed in oral or injectable form, but injectable corticosteroids are usually prescribed only in severe cases. Either way, these medications should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription. - Other medications
Other medications may also be prescribed to relieve the symptoms of this condition. Antihistamines are often used in cases of recurring polyps, while antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an underlying infection. - Surgery
If medication is ineffective, surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves inserting a small tube through the nose into the sinus cavities to remove the polyps. The doctor may also choose to remove any tissue obstructing the flow of mucus or enlarge the openings from the sinus cavity to the nose. This is usually an outpatient procedure, and the patient is advised to use a saline nasal spray to keep the polyp from recurring after surgery.
If one experiences constant irritation in their nose, nasal polyps may be the underlying cause. Knowing the causes of nasal polyps and the common treatments can help one know when to approach a doctor.