Nasal polyps are abnormal tissue growths that form in the lining of the nose. They can cause progressive nasal obstruction and symptoms such as a constant runny nose, a feeling of congestion, or persistent headaches.

The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they appear to be related to genetic factors, aspirin use, asthma, or cystic fibrosis.

Treatment is managed by an ENT specialist, who may recommend nasal sprays or oral medications to relieve symptoms, or surgery in more severe cases.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of nasal polyps include:

Constant runny nose
Feeling of nasal congestion
Reduced sense of smell and taste
Frequent headaches
Feeling of pressure or heaviness in the face
Snoring during sleep

When nasal polyps are very small, a person may not experience symptoms, and they are often discovered during routine nasal or respiratory exams.

These symptoms typically result from progressive nasal obstruction, which can lead to chronic sinusitis.

If you experience symptoms of nasal polyps, it is important to see an ENT specialist for diagnosis and proper treatment.

Confirming a diagnosis

Diagnosis of nasal polyps is made by an ENT specialist through an evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam of the nasal cavities.

The doctor may also recommend additional tests, such as nasal endoscopy or a CT scan.

If chronic sinusitis is suspected, the doctor may first order allergy testing, as it is easier to perform and helps rule out one of the most common causes.

Can nasal polyps become cancer?

Nasal polyps do not turn into cancer because they are benign growths without cancerous cells.

However, this does not mean a person with nasal polyps cannot develop cancer in the respiratory system, especially if they smoke.

Possible causes

The main causes of nasal polyps include:

Family history of nasal polyps
Asthma
Cystic fibrosis
Sensitivity to aspirin
Allergic rhinitis

These factors can cause chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa or sinuses, leading to the formation of nasal polyps.

Treatment options

The main treatments for nasal polyps include:

1. Medication use

Medications for nasal polyps may be prescribed by an ENT specialist to reduce inflammation in the nasal or sinus lining and relieve symptoms.

The doctor may recommend corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as fluticasone or budesonide, or oral corticosteroids like prednisone or prednisolone, particularly in cases of chronic sinusitis.

Other medications that may be prescribed include dupilumab (Dupixent) or omalizumab, especially in cases of chronic sinusitis or when nasal polyps are recurrent, meaning they return even after surgery.

2. Surgery for nasal polyps

If symptoms do not improve after several weeks of treatment, the ENT specialist may recommend surgery to remove the nasal polyps.

After surgery, nasal sprays and saline rinses may be recommended to promote healing and help prevent recurrence.

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Nasal Polyp: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Causes & Treatment