What Are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop inside the lining of the nose or sinuses. They often appear as small, painless lumps or teardrop-shaped swellings and can vary in size, sometimes growing large enough to block nasal passages. While nasal polyps themselves are harmless and not cancerous, their presence can cause a range of symptoms that may affect a person’s daily comfort and quality of life.

These growths occur when the mucous membranes inside the nose or sinuses become chronically inflamed. Over time, this inflammation causes the tissues to swell and form these teardrop-like masses. Although polyps are often painless, they can interfere with normal breathing and airflow, leading to discomfort and other health issues.

What Causes Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps develop when the lining of the nose or sinuses becomes inflamed for an extended period. Chronic inflammation triggers tissue swelling, which may eventually form polyps. Several common conditions and triggers contribute to this ongoing inflammation:

• Chronic sinus infections: Repeated or long-lasting sinus infections cause persistent swelling and mucus buildup, which can lead to polyps.
• Allergies, such as hay fever: Allergic reactions cause the nasal tissues to swell as the immune system responds to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
• Asthma: People with asthma often have a higher risk of developing nasal polyps, as both conditions share underlying inflammation.
• Sensitivity to certain medications: Some individuals react adversely to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, which may trigger nasal inflammation.
• Other medical conditions: Diseases like cystic fibrosis, which causes thick mucus buildup in the airways, or immune system disorders, can contribute to the formation of nasal polyps.

While the exact reason why some people develop polyps and others don’t is not fully understood, these factors are key contributors. It is important to address the underlying causes to manage symptoms effectively.

When to Consider Seeing a Doctor

If any of the following symptoms last for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to schedule an evaluation with a healthcare professional:

• Persistent stuffy or blocked nose that doesn’t improve with typical cold remedies
• Reduced or lost sense of smell or taste
• Frequent or recurring sinus infections that require antibiotics or other treatments
• Difficulty breathing clearly through the nose
• Snoring or a feeling of pressure, fullness, or aching in the face, especially around the forehead, cheeks, or eyes

Early diagnosis can help prevent worsening complications. Healthcare providers can perform a physical exam, often using a nasal endoscope (a small camera inserted gently into the nostrils), to confirm the presence and size of polyps. Imaging tests, like a CT scan, may also be used to assess the extent of sinus involvement.

How Nasal Polyps Can Affect Daily Life

Although nasal polyps themselves don’t cause pain, their impact on breathing and nasal function can affect many areas of life:

• Work: Difficulty breathing or constant nasal congestion can reduce concentration and alertness during activities.
• Social life: A blocked nose and loss of smell can lessen enjoyment of food and drink, which are often shared experiences.
• Overall quality of life: Polyps can disrupt sleep by causing obstruction and mouth breathing, leading to snoring and daytime fatigue. Over time, this discomfort can lower mood, increase irritability, and reduce motivation.

What Research Shows

Studies estimate that nasal polyps affect about 4% of the general population, with a higher prevalence in adults over the age of 40. Research consistently points to long-term inflammation as a central factor in polyp development. Managing underlying allergic and inflammatory conditions can significantly reduce symptoms and improve outcomes.

While nasal polyps can recur even after treatment, addressing causes like allergies, asthma, or infections reduces the likelihood of regrowth. Newer therapies that target inflammation at the molecular level may offer more effective and sustained symptom relief.

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Ready to breathe easier? Schedule your visit at Sleep and Sinus Centers today—book online or call (678) 689-1100 to make an appointment and take the first step toward clear, comfortable breathing.

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