The symptoms that express the presence of certain diseases may not cause pain or discomfort. Still, they significantly compromise the development of our days and greatly inconvenience the person presenting them. A clear example of this is the majority of diseases of the nasal cavity, in which the most commonly referred symptoms are nasal obstruction, itching, sneezing, and excess mucus. One of these diseases, which is characterized by practically constant obstruction without seeming to be any trigger, is the presence of nasal polyps. In this FastlyHealarticle, we will explain everything about nasal polyps: symptoms and treatment, a condition with signs that are confused with those caused by other more common nasal diseases, and that has a possible cure.
Table of Contents
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are the name given to the overgrowth of the mucosa that lines the nostrils, creating smooth and oval masses, similar to grapes, that hang from the nasal cavity walls and produce a condition that we know by the name of polyposis. Nasal. It is also possible that polyps originate in the paranasal sinuses, air structures within the thickness of the bones that surround the nasal cavity, and there is the possibility that the polyps obstruct the hole that connects both air spaces, which can cause sinusitis.
It is a relatively common condition in the population worldwide, and it most often affects men and people over 50 years of age.
What Causes Nasal Polyps
Most nasal polyps are formed by an inflammatory disease, the cause of which has not yet been fully clarified but which has been linked to a large number of possible reasons, such as:
- Persistent allergic reactions and their consequent inflammation
- Airflow disturbances in narrow nasal cavities causing mucus retention
- The formation of edema due to impaired blood flow
- A genetic predisposition.
Also, certain conditions are linked to an increased risk of nasal polyps :
- Smoking
- Asthma and allergies
- Aspirin intolerance
- Environmental factors
What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?
The symptoms produced by nasal polyps are very similar to those caused by persistent rhinitis, so the two diseases are often confused. One of the first symptoms produced by nasal polyps is the partial loss of the sense of smell and the sensation of having something in the nose without causing an obstruction. With the progression of the disease, nasal obstruction begins to be noticed, which can be variable in intensity during the day and is usually the main symptom reported by those who have nasal polyps. Other symptoms produced by nasal polyps are the following:
- The increased flow of mucus, which is generally thick
- Itchy nose and frequent sneezing
- Headaches and eye discomfort
- Nose bleeds
- Pain, in case of an infection of the affected region
What is the treatment for nasal polyps?
To identify the presence of nasal polyps, the otorhinolaryngologist will carry out a series of studies and review the clinical history and explore the nasal cavity, for which a nasal endoscopy can be performed. In general, a computed tomography radiographic study is indicated to detect the lesion’s presence, location, and size; with these photos of the polyps and the nose, it can be seen if there are other abnormalities such as defects of the nasal septum or bone structures.
To treat this disease, a conservative approach can be taken with medications or a more aggressive one with surgeries to remove the overgrown tissues. The most effective pharmacological treatment to reduce the inflammation of the mucosa and the size of the polyps are intranasal corticosteroids in spray or drops, which can reduce the obstruction and alleviate the symptoms of itching and excessive mucus flow.
There is also the possibility of taking corticosteroids orally, which also has positive effects on the relief of symptoms. The antihistamines are frequently used in other medications, but they can only relieve itching and mucus flow symptoms, primarily when associated with allergic rhinitis polyps.
The surgery aims to remove nasal polyps with a procedure called polypectomy, which seeks to restore the normal flow of air. Sometimes it is necessary to complete the process by eliminating small segments of bone or turbinate and even the complete removal of the middle turbinate.
For a more conservative treatment, in the following FastlyHealarticle, we explain the home remedies for nasal polyps.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Nasal polyps: symptoms and treatment, we recommend that you enter our Ear, nose and throat category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.