CHRONIC SINUSITIS WITH POLYPS
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are non-cancerous, painless growths that occur in the sinuses or nasal passages, which are hollow spaces within the bones encircling your nose. These formations originate from mucous membranes, a thin and soft tissue lining these areas. When irritated or swollen, nasal polyps can partially obstruct the nasal passages and sinuses.
What causes nasal polyps?
The formation of polyps is a result of changes in the mucous membranes lining the nose or sinuses. This typically occurs when these membranes undergo frequent inflammation or long-term inflammation, characterized by swelling, redness, and fluid accumulation. Studies suggest that allergies and infections trigger this inflammation, as tissues extracted from nasal polyps had an excess of eosinophils, white blood cells associated with infections and allergic reactions. Consequently, this inflammation leads to the development of fluid-filled small growths that eventually become polyps.
What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?
In their early stages, small polyps may not exhibit any symptoms. However, as they grow larger, they could lead to headaches, loss of smell or taste, nasal congestion, nasal drainage, nosebleeds, postnasal drip, sinus/face/top teeth pressure or pain, and snoring. If the polyps grow large enough to block the nasal passages and sinuses, they could trigger frequent asthma attacks in asthmatics, repeated sinus infections, sleep apnea, other sleep disorders, and breathing difficulties even in non-asthmatics.
How are nasal obstructions treated?
The treatment for nasal obstructions varies, and while nasal polyps cannot be cured in all patients, several remedies are available. These include steroid sprays to reduce the size of the polyps and alleviate symptoms, oral steroids, subcutaneous injections of a medication called dupilumab, outpatient surgery to insert a tiny stent that keeps the nasal passages open and delivers steroids or other medications, and endoscopic outpatient surgery to remove polyps when other treatments fail. Additionally, antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is present. It’s worth noting that polyps frequently reoccur after treatment, necessitating long-term steroid treatments or repeated surgeries for many patients. If you’re experiencing persistent nasal congestion or other sinus-related symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment.