What are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nose or sinuses. They are usually painless but can cause significant blockage, congestion, and a reduced sense of smell. Polyps vary in size and may occur singly or in clusters, filling the nasal passages and making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
Causes of Nasal Polyps
The exact reason why some people develop nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are strongly linked to chronic inflammation of the nasal and sinus lining. Conditions such as chronic sinusitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis increase the likelihood of developing them. Some people are more prone to polyps due to an underlying sensitivity in their immune system. They are not related to cancer and do not turn into cancer.
Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Polyps can cause a persistent blocked nose, reduced or complete loss of sense of smell, and a runny nose. Many patients also experience post-nasal drip, frequent sinus infections, facial pressure, snoring, and disturbed sleep. When polyps are large or multiple, they can cause significant discomfort and ongoing sinus problems.
Treatment Options
Small polyps may improve with medication such as steroid nasal sprays, which reduce inflammation and swelling. Short courses of steroid tablets may also be prescribed in more severe cases. If symptoms persist or polyps are large, surgery may be needed to remove them and improve airflow. Endoscopic sinus surgery is the most common procedure, performed through the nose without external cuts. Polyps can sometimes come back after treatment, so long-term management with sprays or other medication is often recommended to reduce recurrence. An ENT specialist can carry out a nasal endoscopy or arrange scans to confirm the diagnosis and plan the best treatment.
If you have growths that develop in the lining of the nose or sinus, get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today!
020 3897 0667
