How can a 53-year-old manage recurring polyps post-COVID?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 53 years old and have had nasal polyps for some time. After I had COVID-19, my symptoms got much worse, and now it is much harder for me to breathe through my nose.

I would like to ask whether nasal polyps are common to recur or become more severe after infections.

In cases where symptoms persist or when nasal sprays are no longer effective, what are the usual management options for recurring nasal polyps?
Additionally, if symptoms continue to impact sleep and overall quality of life, would surgery be something worth reconsidering at this stage?

Thank you very much for your time and guidance.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I read your query and understand your concern.

At times, polyps may expand at an accelerated rate following infections such as COVID-19, as the virus's inflammation may promote tissue growth. Frequently, persistent allergies, such as perennial allergic rhinitis or specific sensitivities, are the cause of polyps that do not respond to regular nasal medications. In order to determine whether allergies are present, physicians may recommend skin prick tests, blood tests for total and specific IgE (expand this) allergy panel, or a nasal smear for eosinophils (nasocytogram). In the event that an allergy is identified, subsequent treatment should be modified in accordance with the recommendations of an allergist.

This may involve antihistamines or modern biologic therapies (monoclonal antibodies), which are now considered the gold standard for managing severe, recurrent polyposis. If conservative therapy and topical steroid sprays are no longer effective and polyps become large enough to fully block the nasal passages, surgery is the only effective option.

No drops or tablets can physically dissolve a large, structural mass. Because your symptoms are now seriously affecting your sleep and daily life, it is important to reconsider repeat surgery, specifically functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Modern surgery aims not only to remove the polyps but also to restore proper sinus ventilation. This helps future topical medications reach the tissue and work better. To find out exactly how far the disease has progressed and decide what to do next, you should get a new CT (computed topography) scan of your paranasal sinuses and book an in-person visit with an ENT surgeon.

I hope this addresses your concerns.

Please feel free to follow up if you need any additional clarification.

Thank you.