Nasal polyps are benign, grape-like growths of the nasal mucosa. These soft, painless formations located within the nasal cavities can vary in size and number, and often show an expansive tendency. They can be so small that they don’t cause any problems, or they can be big enough to cause a number of annoyances. In fact, as they develop, they may cause blockage of the nasal cavities, which triggers the appearance of unpleasant symptoms. Nasal polyps occur more often in adults than in children.
Nasal polyps: Causes
The exact causes of the formation of nasal polyps are not fully understood, but several factors are involved in their development. One of the main causes is the existence of chronic inflammation of the nose. Chronic inflammation of the nasal cavities or paranasal sinuses contributes to the formation of nasal polyps. This inflammation can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies, asthma, repeated infections, or environmental irritants. At the same time, there is a strong correlation between asthma and nasal polyps. People with asthma are more likely to develop polyps in the nose, and having both conditions together can make symptoms worse. Diseases such as recurrent upper respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis, cystic fibrosis or Churg Strauss syndrome can contribute to the condition. Conditions such as excessive sensitivity or allergy to drugs, especially aspirin, as well as vitamin D deficiency are among the possible causes of polyp development. Finally, some people may be genetically predisposed to developing nasal polyps. A family history of the condition may increase the risk.
Symptoms of polyps in the nose
Nasal polyps can cause a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity. One of the most common symptoms is persistent nasal congestion, which can lead to difficulty in nasal breathing. Nasal polyps also cause a reduced sense of smell (hyposmia), while they may lead to anosmia, i.e. a complete loss of smell. A runny nose is another common symptom of the condition. Decreased sense of taste, nosebleeds, frequent snoring and episodes of sleep apnea are also common in patients with nasal polyps. Nasal polyps can cause mucus to build up in the back of the nose and run down the throat, causing postnasal drip and coughing. Large nasal polyps can block the sinuses, causing headache, pain in the upper teeth and pressure on the forehead or face, while also increasing the risk of sinus infection (sinusitis). Finally, asthma flare-ups may occur in patients suffering from it.
Diagnosis of polyps in the nose
Diagnosing nasal polyps usually involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. More specifically, the process begins with taking a detailed medical history, which helps identify possible diseases associated with the onset of the condition and assess the duration and severity of symptoms. Next is probably the most important examination for the diagnosis of the condition, the nasal endoscopy. This examination allows visualization of the nasal cavities and confirmation of the presence of polyps. In fact, a CT scan may be indicated to assess the size and location of nasal polyps and to rule out other causes of nasal obstruction. Finally, an allergy test may prove useful in ascertaining any allergens.
Nasal polyps: Treatment options
The treatment of nasal polyps depends on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient’s quality of life. If the symptoms are mild, an attempt is made to manage the condition with conservative measures. The first choice in terms of treating the condition is the administration of medication. Initially, corticosteroid nasal sprays are given, which reduce inflammation and shrink the polyps in the nose, while also treating the symptoms of sinusitis. Nasal irrigations are particularly helpful, if carried out for a prolonged period of time, in relieving symptoms and improving the flow of air in the nose. Antihistamines are also prescribed, if necessary, to manage the underlying allergic rhinitis. If you have a bacterial infection, antibiotic administration may be required.
In cases of nasal polyps that cause severe symptoms or recur, surgical treatment is indicated. In this case, endoscopic removal of nasal polyps is performed, which aims to remove the specific growths and correct any structural problems in the sinuses. The most commonly performed procedure is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), which is performed under general anesthesia using thin endoscopes and specialized instruments. Nasal polyps are accessed from inside the nose, without the need for any external incision. This technique not only facilitates the effective removal of polyps, but also the enlargement of the sinus openings, allowing the thorough cleaning of the point from which they emerge and consequently minimizing the risk of future recurrence. The procedure is painless, and the patient is discharged the next day. In fact, FESS can be combined in the same surgical time with other procedures such as septoplasty, nasal conchae cauterisation or rhinoplasty. ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou treats polyps in the nose with the most efficient techniques, with the aim of immediate and long-term relief for each patient.