Nasal polyps are common but often overlooked. Untreated nasal polyps may contribute to persistent sinus symptoms that affect daily comfort and breathing. Our team offers diagnostic and treatment support to help manage these issues. If you’re experiencing chronic sinus concerns, we’re here to help explore safe, effective options. Here at New England Breathe Free, we understand how frustrating this can be, and we are here to help patients identify underlying causes, get an accurate diagnosis, and offer evidence-based treatment plans designed to help manage symptoms and support sinus health, with results varying by individual.
Nasal Polyps:
Understanding the Causes and Symptoms & Exploring Treatment Options
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that can form in the tissue lining of the sinuses. These are typically tear-shaped and can form individually or in clusters. Small polyps may not cause symptoms, and while not exactly life-threatening, larger polyps or multiple growths can block airflow, impacting nasal breathing and sinus drainage. This leads to frustrating symptoms like nasal congestion, sinus pain and pressure, breathing difficulties, and a reduced sense of smell or taste.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
Although the cause is difficult to determine and is not fully understood, nasal polyps are strongly associated with the chronic inflammation of the sinus and nasal linings. Factors that may increase the risk of developing nasal polyps include:
- Chronic sinus infections: Repeated sinus inflammation and infection increase risk
- Allergic rhinitis: Sinus and nasal inflammation due to airborne allergens
- Asthma: Non-allergic asthma is often associated with nasal polyps
- Aspirin sensitivity: This is known to increase the risk of nasal polyps in some patients
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic condition commonly associated with nasal polyps, particularly in children
What Are the Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps?
Symptoms vary depending on the size and number of growths. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Frequent sinus infections
- Runny nose
- Postnasal drip
- Facial pain or pressure
- Reduced or total loss of sense of taste and/or smell
- Snoring or disrupted sleep
How Are Nasal Polyps Diagnosed?
Our ENT specialists at New England Breathe Free use advanced diagnostic tools like nasal endoscopy and imaging to evaluate overall sinus health and function. Your symptoms, their severity, and medical history will all be taken into account to support a thorough evaluation and help guide the development of an individualized care plan.
How Are Nasal Polyps Treated?
Nasal polyps treatment aims to reduce the inflammation of the sinus linings and manage the symptoms. Treatment options include both surgical and non-surgical options:
Non-Surgical Treatment: Medications
- Saline rinses flush out irritants in the sinuses and reduce inflammation
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce the swelling of the sinuses and may shrink polyps
- Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for more severe symptoms
When symptoms don’t respond to standard medications, further evaluation is recommended.
Surgical Treatment: Endoscopic Polypectomy
Large, persistent, or recurrent polyps may not respond well to medications. In such cases, a procedure called endoscopic polypectomy may be recommended as a more advanced treatment option. This is a minimally invasive procedure that removes the polyps through the nostrils, using specialized instruments. Endoscopic polypectomy can be effective in removing polyps and improving symptoms in many patients. However, nasal polyps commonly recur over time, so follow-up care is essential for long-term management.
Why Choose New England Breathe Free?
We take a comprehensive approach to evaluate contributing factors and provide treatment plans aimed at long-term symptom control.
✅Identifying the root cause of the persistent inflammation
✅Comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis using modern imaging and nasal endoscopy
✅Personalized treatment plans to reduce recurrence, while considering your unique health goals
✅Patient-first approach to care, focusing on patient education
Take Control of Your Sinus Health Today
Nasal polyps can quickly take control of your life, impacting your breathing, day-to-day activities, and the overall quality of your life. Don’t let yourself suffer any longer–take back control. Schedule a consultation with our team today and explore safe and effective treatment options, and start feeling better.
Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.