Nasal polyps – causes, symptoms, treatment

A persistent stuffy nose, a reduced sense of smell, and mouth breathing may seem like a common cold, but when the complaints do not subside for days or weeks, the cause could be something more serious. A feeling of pressure in the face, frequent sinus infections, and snoring at night can be signs of a hidden problem that makes breathing difficult and impairs the quality of life. Although they often go unnoticed, nasal polyps can significantly affect daily functioning. What causes them, how can they be recognized, and what are the treatment options?

What are nasal polyps and what do they look like?

Nasal polyps are noncancerous, soft growths that form on the mucous membrane of the nasal passages or sinuses. They often go unnoticed until they become large enough to cause issues with breathing and smell. They can be pale gray or white, with a smooth surface, and resemble a peeled grape or a hanging teardrop.

Their size varies—smaller polyps usually do not cause problems, while larger or multiple polyps can lead to a complete blockage of the airways.

Why do nasal polyps form?

Although the exact cause of polyp formation is not fully understood, it is believed that chronic inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucous membranes plays a key role. Factors that can contribute to their development include:

• Allergies: Prolonged exposure to allergens can cause inflammation and increase the risk of polyp formation.
• Asthma: People with asthma more frequently develop nasal polyps.
• Infections: Recurrent sinusitis can contribute to their development.
• Genetic predisposition: If someone in the family has polyps, there is a greater likelihood that other members will develop them as well.
• Sensitivity to aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: some individuals are more prone to developing polyps due to this hypersensitivity.

What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?

Symptoms depend on the size and location of the polyps. While smaller polyps often go unnoticed, larger ones can cause:

• Chronic nasal congestion: A constant feeling of stuffiness, even when there is no cold.
• Runny nose: Frequent discharge that doesn’t stop.
• Reduced or lost sense of smell: A partial or complete loss of this sense.
• Pain or pressure in the face: Especially around the sinuses.
• Snoring: Due to difficulty breathing through the nose.
• Frequent sinus infections: Mucus builds up, increasing the risk of inflammation.

If you notice these symptoms and they do not go away, it is important to seek professional help in order to establish the correct diagnosis and find the appropriate solution.

Possible consequences of untreated polyps.

Nasal polyps are not life-threatening, but they can significantly affect the quality of daily functioning. If left untreated, they can lead to:

• Chronic nasal congestion – breathing difficulties can become an ongoing problem.
• Loss of the sense of smell and taste – which can affect everyday activities like enjoying food.
• Recurring sinus infections – due to blocked airways.
• Sleeping problems – snoring and poor sleep can cause daytime fatigue and exhaustion, and in some cases even contribute to the development of sleep apnea.
• Worsening of asthma – in individuals who already have this diagnosis.
• Deformity of the nasal structure – in rare cases, large polyps can expand the nasal bones and alter the appearance of the face.

Regular check-ups with a specialist can help in early detection and prevention of complications.

How are nasal polyps diagnosed?

The first step in making a diagnosis is a detailed ENT examination, during which the doctor assesses the symptoms and uses various methods to examine the nasal cavity. The patient describes issues such as difficulty breathing, a reduced sense of smell, increased discharge, or facial pressure.

After that, the doctor may use rhinoscopy, a method involving a special lit instrument that provides a view into the inside of the nose. For a more precise assessment, an endoscopic examination is often used, in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the nose to accurately locate the polyps.

In cases where more detailed imaging is required, the doctor may recommend a computerized tomography (CT) scan of the sinuses, which provides a clear picture of the size, location, and extent of the polyps. These diagnostic methods enable accurate identification of the problem and help plan the best treatment approach.

How are nasal polyps treated?

The first step in treatment often involves the use of medications aimed at reducing inflammation and the size of the polyps.

• Nasal corticosteroids – sprays that reduce inflammation and the size of the polyps.
• Oral corticosteroids – used in more severe cases, but due to possible side effects, they are administered only for a short period.
• Antihistamines – recommended for patients whose polyps are associated with allergies.
• Antibiotics – if there is an additional sinus infection.

Given that polyps are often associated with chronic inflammation, it is important to carry out appropriate sinus treatment in order to prevent their recurrence and reduce the risk of new complications.

Polyp surgery

If medication therapy does not lead to satisfactory improvement, or if the polyps are large and causing significant symptoms, surgical removal is recommended. The most common procedure is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). This minimally invasive method allows the removal of polyps without external incisions.

The procedure lasts from 20 to 60 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon uses a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) that is inserted through the nasal passages to precisely remove the polyps and restore normal airflow.

After the surgery, nasal packing is usually placed, which is removed after 24 to 48 hours. Patients may experience mild pain or discomfort following the procedure, but with proper care, they quickly return to daily activities. Regular nasal irrigation with a saline solution helps the healing process and prevents the recurrence of polyps.

Natural treatment of nasal polyps

Although natural treatments cannot remove polyps, they can help reduce symptoms and inflammation. Some of them include:

• Nasal irrigation with a saline solution – helps remove allergens and reduce irritation.
• Steam inhalation with essential oils – eucalyptus and tea tree can contribute to easier breathing.
• A change in diet – reducing intake of processed foods and sugar can positively affect inflammatory processes in the body.

However, before starting any treatment, it is recommended to talk to a specialist, as only a proper diagnosis can ensure effective treatment.

Timely treatment of polyps for a better quality of life.

Nasal polyps can significantly affect the quality of life by making breathing difficult, reducing the sense of smell, and increasing the risk of infections. Although they often result from chronic inflammation, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications. At the Dr Prlja Medical Clinic, a team of specialized professionals provides a comprehensive approach to polyp treatment, combining the latest diagnostic and therapeutic methods.

Medication therapy often helps in controlling symptoms, but in more severe cases, surgery remains the most effective solution. Regular check-ups with a doctor and following the recommended measures can reduce the risk of polyp recurrence. If you notice symptoms that do not subside, an examination at Dr Prlja Medical Clinic is the first step toward improving your respiratory health.