What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are often a soft and painless growth that can happen in the nasal passages and sinuses. They are noncancerous growth that can occur from any allergy, immune problems, sensitivity to drugs, asthma, and other related infections. The nasal polyps can differ in size and shape. If the nasal polyps are very small, symptoms are not noticeable. The larger growths might cause discomfort in the nose. Nasal polyps can occur at any age. Treatment can be given with the help of both medications and surgery.
How Does a Nasal Polyp Occur?
In general, the nasal mucosa is a moist environment. It serves as a protective covering for the sinuses and nose. It also helps in the humidification of the air that one breathes. When there is a continuous irritation or inflammation in the nostril, it can result in the swelling of the nose. This can make the nasal mucosa appear red and inflamed. The fluid starts dripping out from the nose. This affected nasal mucosa can result in the formation of nasal growth called nasal polyps. It can appear like a cyst and can block the airway.
What Are the Causes of Nasal Polyps?
Some people are known to develop nasal polyps without any problems in the nose. The common causes (and associations) of nasal polyps are:
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Asthma.
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Chronic or recurring sinus infections.
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Adverse reactions for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen and Aspirin.
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Allergic rhinitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps?
Due to the nasal polyps, the areas of the nose, eyes, and cheek bones are affected. Many people do not realize they have a small nasal polyp because of the absence of nerve sensations. If the patient has sinus infections, then they might experience a headache.
The common symptoms of nasal polyps are:
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Blocked feeling in the nose if the nasal polyp is large.
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Runny nose.
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Postnasal drip.
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Nasal stuffiness.
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Nasal congestion.
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Reduced sense of smell.
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Snoring.
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Breathing through your mouth.
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A sense of pressure in the face and forehead.
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Sleep apnea.
What Are the Risk Factors Associated With Nasal Polyp?
The risk factors that are associated with nasal polyps are:
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Churg-Strauss Syndrome: It is a rare inflammatory condition in which the blood vessels are affected. Patients who have a positive history of Churg-Strauss syndrome suffer a higher risk for nasal polyp.
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Vitamin D Deficiency: If the vitamin content, especially vitamin D, is low, then the person has the highest possibility of getting affected by nasal polyps.
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Allergic Fungal Sinusitis: It is an allergy that is caused by fungi.
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Cystic Fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition in which sticky fluids are released from the sinus and the nasal passages.
What Are the Complications of Nasal Polyps?
Complications due to nasal polyps can occur due to the inflammation and blockage of the nose. The fluid drainage is also restricted in some patients.
The known complications of nasal polyp are:
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Sinus Infections: These can make the individual susceptible to recurrent infections. A prolonged condition of sinusitis can result in asthma.
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea: It includes abnormal patterns of breathing when the person is awake or at sleep.
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Invasion of Eyes or Brain: If polyps are left untreated for a long time, they can gradually erode bones and reach the eyes or brain. This can be really dangerous.
How Is a Nasal Polyp Diagnosed?
Nasal polyp requires a physical examination by the doctor. The medical history of the patient is also carefully recorded.
The various techniques that are employed for the purpose of diagnosis are:
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Nasal Endoscopy: It is a procedure in which a narrow instrument is inserted through the nostrils that can be visualized with the help of a magnifying lens. Sometimes, a tiny camera is also attached to the instrument so that the structures can be visualized well.
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Allergy Tests: A skin prick test is done under the supervision of a doctor to identify the agent causing the allergy. In case this test cannot be performed, then the patient is recommended to go for a blood test.
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Sweat Test: A sweat test is performed to identify the condition of cystic fibrosis. The perspiration of the patient is collected and is tested whether it is saltier than the normal level.
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Blood Tests: Since vitamin D deficiency is also a cause for the occurrence of nasal polyps, blood tests are done to check the level of vitamin D.
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Imaging Techniques: The doctor will advise various imaging techniques like computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.
What Are the Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps require great effort to get treated completely. The main aim of the treatment is to reduce inflammation and other swellings.
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Medications: Nasal corticosteroids are recommended by the doctor to decrease the inflammatory condition. Medications like Beclomethasone, Mometasone, and Budesonide are highly beneficial drugs. If the nasal medications are not effective, then the doctor will recommend injectable corticosteroids. If the patient is suffering from both nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis condition, then the patient is advised for Dupilumab. Antihistamines are widely used for treating recurrent allergies.
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Surgery: If the condition does not get better with medications, then the patient will be advised for surgery. The surgeon will perform an endoscopic surgery to remove the polyps. After the surgical procedure, the patient is advised for saline rinse and medications for faster healing.
What Are the Precautionary Measures to Be Followed?
By following the below tips, it is possible to prevent conditions like nasal polyps.
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Practicing Good Hygiene: It is necessary for you to wash your hands frequently. This is the ideal way to protect yourself against viral and bacterial infections.
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Usage of a Humidifier: You can use a humidifier to provide moisture to the nasal passage. The flow of the mucus from the sinus is improved.
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Avoiding the Allergen: The airborne substances might cause inflammation to the nose. It is necessary to avoid them. The allergens might be avoided from the living room. These allergens might include chemical gases, dust, and tobacco smoke.
When Does the Patient Require Medical Help?
The patient requires emergency medical help in the following circumstances:
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If the patient is having difficulty breathing for more than ten minutes.
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Extreme pain or pressure in the facial region.
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Recurrent sinusitis infections.
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Any noticeable swelling is seen.
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Abrupt elevation of the symptoms.
Conclusion:
Nasal polyps are treatable conditions with a good outcome. These can cause discomfort and interfere with normal breathing. Do not postpone your doctor's appointment if you have strained breathing and suspect some growth or blockage inside your nose. Identifying it early when they are small can help treat them with medications. Consult an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist online for further queries.
