Topical Treatments for Nasal Polyps: Non-Surgical Options to Manage Symptoms

     Nasal congestion that won’t go away, a runny nose, or even a sudden loss of your sense of smell—these can be signs of nasal polyps.      If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with these noncancerous growths in the nasal passages, you might wonder what the next steps are.      Does every treatment for nasal polyps require surgery? The good news is that today’s non-surgical, topical options offer many people effective relief and long-term control, often without the need for an operation.    

     In this post, we’ll explore what nasal polyps are, why they develop, and most importantly, how topical treatments—such as steroid nasal sprays,      saline rinses, and newer biologic therapies—can help you breathe easier. Read on to learn about your options and what to expect as you manage nasal polyps treatment with confidence and clarity.    

Understanding Nasal Polyps

What Are Nasal Polyps?

     Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that form on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses—the air-filled spaces behind your nose and around your eyes.      Imagine them as small teardrop-shaped swellings that often grow in clusters, gradually blocking airflow in your nose.      They’re most frequently linked to chronic conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), allergies, asthma, and repeated infections.    

     Because these growths physically obstruct your nasal passages, they often make breathing through the nose difficult and can severely impact quality of life by limiting your sense of smell and causing ongoing discomfort.    

Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

People living with nasal polyps typically experience a combination of symptoms such as:

     
• Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness that doesn’t improve with usual remedies
     
• A watery or runny nose and bothersome postnasal drip
     
• A reduced—or in more severe cases, a complete loss—of smell and taste
     
• Facial pain, headaches, or a constant feeling of pressure around the eyes or cheeks
     
• Frequent snoring, restless nights, or even symptoms of sleep apnea
   

     Many patients initially notice subtle changes, like trouble smelling their morning coffee or feeling congested despite using decongestants.      Over time, as polyps enlarge and block airflow further, symptoms worsen and become more frustrating.      One patient shared, “It felt like my nose was just permanently stuffed, no matter how much I tried to clear it.”      [1],      [2]    

Causes and Risk Factors of Nasal Polyps

     What causes these growths to develop? Nasal polyps primarily result from chronic inflammation in the nasal and sinus linings.      This persistent inflammation can arise from various factors, including:    

     
• Allergies: Ongoing allergic reactions trigger inflammation, leading to swelling and polyp formation.
     
• Asthma: People with asthma have a higher tendency to develop nasal polyps; the two conditions are closely related.
     
• Recurring sinus infections: Untreated or repeated sinus infections keep the nasal tissue inflamed, paving the way for growths.
     
• Genetic predisposition: Nasal polyps sometimes run in families; conditions like cystic fibrosis increase risk.
     
• Environmental triggers: Exposure to irritants such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, or certain workplace chemicals can worsen nasal inflammation.        [3]      
   

     Over time, this constant inflammation causes the nasal tissue to swell and form these protrusions, which further block airflow and amplify symptoms.      Think of it like a small cut or scratch that never fully heals—inflammation persists and gradually worsens the tissue condition.    

Nasal Polyps Treatment Overview

     When managing nasal polyps, treatment options usually fall into two key categories:      surgical and non-surgical. Surgery—most commonly endoscopic sinus surgery—is typically reserved for severe cases or when less invasive medications fail to control symptoms.    

     Fortunately, many people find they can effectively manage their condition with non-surgical treatments, especially topical therapies that target inflammation directly.    

The primary goals of nasal polyps treatment are:

     
• Shrinking the size of existing polyps
     
• Reducing inflammation in nasal tissues
     
• Preventing new polyps from developing
   

Now, let’s explore the topical treatments that have proven most effective in controlling nasal polyps today.

Topical Treatments for Nasal Polyps

Nasal Steroid Sprays

     The frontline non-surgical treatment for nasal polyps is the use of steroid nasal sprays (also known as intranasal corticosteroids).      Medications such as fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and budesonide (Rhinocort) work by directly reducing inflammation where it’s needed—in your nasal passages.    

With consistent daily use as directed, these sprays can:

     
• Shrink the size of polyps over time
     
• Ease nasal congestion and improve airflow
     
• Enhance the sense of smell and taste often diminished by polyps
   

     For example, James, who struggled with polyps following years of seasonal allergies, shared,      “Once I started using a steroid spray daily, I finally could breathe freely again at night. It took a few weeks, but the improvement was undeniable.”    

     While generally well tolerated, steroid sprays may cause mild side effects such as a dry or irritated nose and occasionally nosebleeds (epistaxis).      Correct usage is key to effectiveness and minimizing side effects—your healthcare provider or pharmacist can show you proper technique to ensure the spray reaches the right area without irritating other parts of your nose.      [1]    

Oral Steroids

     In cases of severe nasal congestion or particularly large polyps, doctors sometimes prescribe a short course of oral corticosteroids like prednisone.      These “burst” treatments can quickly shrink polyps and reduce inflammation, providing rapid symptom relief.    

     Because oral steroids can cause systemic side effects—including elevated blood sugar, insomnia, mood swings, and increased infection risk—they are generally used for brief periods ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks,      often as an initial treatment before transitioning to topical therapies for maintenance.    

     Maria, a busy mom managing both asthma and polyps, recalls, “A week on oral steroids stopped the worst symptoms in their tracks, which gave me much-needed relief.      After that, I was glad to switch back to the nasal spray for daily care.”    

     Physicians carefully weigh benefits and risks when recommending oral steroids, using the shortest effective course to control severe symptoms before tapering to topical options.    

Biologic Therapies Targeting Nasal Polyps

     Biologic therapies are a newer class of treatments offering hope for patients with severe or persistent nasal polyps—especially those with concurrent asthma or allergic conditions.      These medications are administered by injection and work by targeting specific immune system pathways responsible for inflammation.    

     Currently, dupilumab (Dupixent) is FDA-approved specifically for nasal polyps.      Additionally, mepolizumab (Nucala) and omalizumab (Xolair) are approved for asthma and some allergic conditions and have shown benefit for nasal polyps; these may be considered for nasal polyps under physician guidance.    

Studies have shown that these biologic agents can:

     
• Significantly reduce polyp size
     
• Improve sense of smell and nasal airflow
     
• Decrease or eliminate the need for oral steroids and possibly surgery
   

     For example, a 2021 clinical trial reported that dupilumab reduced nasal polyp size by over 50% in many patients within 24 weeks of treatment—a breakthrough for those with hard-to-treat polyps.      [4]    

     Emerging biologics like depemokimab and tezepelumab are currently in clinical trials, promising more options soon.    

     Biologics are typically considered when topical treatments and oral steroids have failed or if polyps recur despite best efforts.      Side effects can include injection site reactions and rarely allergic responses.      Your healthcare provider will thoroughly assess your medical history and overall health to determine if biologics are right for you.    

Saline Nasal Rinses

     A simple yet effective adjunct in managing nasal polyps is the saline nasal rinse (often using a neti pot or squeeze bottle).      Saline rinses flush out mucus, allergens, dust, and other irritants that contribute to inflammation and blockage.    

Regular nasal irrigation can:

     
• Cleanse nasal passages, reducing swelling
     
• Improve delivery and effectiveness of steroid sprays by clearing pathways
     
• Support overall nasal hygiene, reducing infection risk and promoting healing
   

     Most people use commercially available pre-mixed saline solutions or prepare their own with distilled or boiled water and non-iodized salt.      Using a rinse once or twice daily can be helpful, especially alongside prescription sprays.    

Lifestyle Tips to Support Nasal Polyps Treatment

Beyond medications, adopting certain lifestyle habits can make a noticeable difference for those managing nasal polyps:

     
• Avoid nasal irritants: Smoking, air pollution, and strong chemical fumes can aggravate inflammation and worsen symptoms.
     
• Practice good nasal hygiene: Regular saline rinses and thorough handwashing can prevent nasal infections that worsen polyps.
     
• Use a humidifier: Keeping airways moist, especially during dry seasons, reduces irritation and supports healing.
     
• Effectively manage allergies and asthma: Staying on top of allergy and asthma treatments lowers overall inflammation and risk of polyp recurrence.
     
• Maintain regular follow-up with your ENT specialist: If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, timely care adjustments provide the best outcomes.
   

Combining medication and lifestyle changes offers the strongest chance for long-term control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can nasal polyps go away without surgery?

     In many cases, nasal polyps can shrink significantly or sometimes resolve entirely with topical treatments; however, some patients may still require surgery.      Early and consistent treatment improves the likelihood of non-surgical success.    

How long does it take for steroid sprays to reduce polyps?

Some improvement can occur within a few weeks, but optimal results often take several months of regular use. Patience and adherence to the treatment plan are essential.

Are biologic treatments safe for long-term use?

     Biologics are generally well tolerated when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider.      Most patients experience minimal side effects, but ongoing research continues to evaluate their long-term safety.    

Can lifestyle changes help prevent nasal polyps?

Absolutely. Managing allergy symptoms, avoiding irritants, and maintaining nasal hygiene can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of polyps returning.

When should I consider surgery for nasal polyps?

     Surgery is usually recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to control symptoms, or when polyps cause severe nasal obstruction that affects breathing and quality of life.    

Conclusion

     Managing nasal polyps doesn’t always mean facing surgery. Thanks to advances in medical treatments,      many people now benefit from effective topical options—such as steroid sprays, saline rinses, and biologic therapies—      to control symptoms, preserve their sense of smell, and enjoy easier breathing day after day.      The key lies in early intervention, consistent care, and partnering closely with your ENT specialist to tailor treatment to your specific needs.    

     If you or a loved one struggle with persistent nasal congestion or suspect nasal polyps, don’t wait.      Explore your non-surgical treatment options today and take that next deep, comfortable breath.      To get started or discuss your symptoms, book an appointment with an ENT specialist at      Sleep & Sinus Centers.    

References:

     
1. Mayo Clinic. Nasal Polyps Treatment
     
2. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Nasal Polyps Overview
     
3. Cleveland Clinic. Nasal Polyps Symptoms and Treatment
     
4. NCBI. Advances in Nasal Polyps Treatment
   

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.    Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

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