If you’ve ever felt a constant stuffy nose or noticed reduced sense of smell, nasal polyps might be behind it. These are soft, painless growths that hang out in the lining of your nose or sinuses. Most people don’t notice them until they cause problems, but knowing the signs early can save you a lot of hassle.
Nasal polyps are tiny, teardrop‑shaped bumps made of inflamed tissue. They grow when the lining inside your nose gets irritated for a long time – think chronic allergies, asthma, or repeated sinus infections. Because they’re non‑cancerous, they don’t spread to other parts of the body, but they can block airflow and trap mucus, making you feel congested all the time.
Typical symptoms include:
If you notice a combination of these signs, it’s worth getting your nose checked. An ENT specialist can confirm polyps with a quick endoscopic exam.
The good news is there are several ways to shrink or remove polyps without surgery. First‑line treatment usually involves steroid sprays that reduce inflammation directly in the nasal passages. Many people see improvement within a few weeks, especially when they combine the spray with saline rinses to clear out mucus.
If sprays aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe oral steroids for a short burst or recommend newer biologic medicines like dupilumab, which target specific immune pathways linked to polyp growth. These options are more expensive but can work wonders for patients with severe, recurring polyps.
When medication fails, surgical removal – often done endoscopically – becomes the next step. The procedure clears out existing polyps and opens up sinus drainage paths, helping prevent future buildup. Recovery is usually quick, and most people feel noticeable relief within days.
Beyond medical treatment, a few lifestyle tweaks can keep symptoms in check:
Keeping these habits steady can reduce the chance of polyps returning after treatment.
Bottom line: nasal polyps may be annoying, but they’re manageable. Spotting symptoms early, using steroid sprays, and staying on top of allergies often prevent surgery. If you think you might have them, schedule a visit with an ENT – a quick check can set you on the path to clearer breathing.
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