Nasal Polyps: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Nasal polyps are more common than you might think, but they can cause real trouble for those experiencing sinus pain, pressure and trouble breathing. There are several ways to treat them once they’ve been identified as the cause of your symptoms.

Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

The symptoms of nasal polyps can sometimes mimic those of other medical conditions. Because of this, they may sometimes go undiagnosed for some time by primary care physicians treating asthma and recurring sinus infections. However, a sinus specialist can usually spot the signs quickly and order the right diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.

Possible symptoms of nasal polyps include:

• Decreased sense of smell or taste
• Runny nose or postnasal drip
• Facial pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing through your nose
• Asthma attacks
• Snoring or sleep apnea
• Headaches

Nasal Polyps Treatments

Thankfully, there are several treatment options for those with nasal polyps. Your sinus specialist will create a treatment plan based on your symptoms, type and location of polyps and your medical history. Non-surgical techniques are typically very effective at treating polyps. However, your specialist may recommend outpatient surgery to relieve your symptoms.

Possible treatments for nasal polyps include:

• Steroid nasal sprays (such as Flonase)
• Oral steroids (such as prednisone)
• Biologic injection medications (such as Dupixent)
• Sinus implants (such as Sinuva)

Other Things You Can Do

Even with treatment, there is a possibility that nasal polyps can return. Although they may return even if you take steps to prevent it, there are things you can do to reduce the chance that they will. Doing these things may improve your sinus health and ability to breathe easily, even if they don’t entirely prevent the return of nasal polyps.

Nasal polyp prevention steps:

• Take allergy and asthma medications regularly as prescribed
• Avoid airborne allergens whenever possible
• Avoid touching your face, especially when working with potential allergens
• Use a humidifier in your home, especially in bedrooms while sleeping
• Use a saline nasal rinse to remove allergens that may cause inflammation

Dr. Levitin at City Sinus Care understands the challenges of identifying and treating nasal polyps, especially as a potentially recurring condition. Call to schedule your appointment today for a comprehensive exam and learn more about your treatment options.