I have nasal polyps. Can Saline rinses prevent recurrence?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Your findings of an eight percent eosinophil count and IgE (immunoglobulin E) level of 290 IU/mL (international units per milliliter) in the context of bilateral nasal polyps suggest an eosinophilic and likely allergic inflammatory component to your nasal polyposis.

Elevated eosinophils and IgE are commonly associated with allergic and eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). However, these markers alone do not confirm allergy but support an allergic or eosinophilic inflammation underlying the polyps.

Steroid nasal sprays are the first-line treatment to reduce polyp size and inflammation. They improve symptoms and may reduce recurrence risk, but rarely eliminate polyps.

Around 60 to 80percent of patients respond well symptomatically, but complete polyp removal by sprays alone occurs in a minority. If nasal sprays do not shrink the polyps adequately or symptoms persist, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is often necessary to remove the polyps and improve sinus drainage.

Recurrence after surgical removal is common, with rates reported up to 50 to 60 percent or more over long-term follow-up, especially in eosinophilic types and with associated asthma or Aspirin sensitivity. Continued use of intranasal corticosteroids after surgery is critical to reduce recurrence.

Saline nasal rinses are recommended adjuncts to therapy. High-volume, low-pressure saline irrigation helps clear allergens, mucus, and biofilms from the nasal cavity and sinuses, improving mucosal health and reducing symptom severity.

They also support the effectiveness of steroid sprays and may help delay or reduce the chances of polyp recurrence. The heaviness you feel over your cheeks and forehead could be due to sinus pressure from nasal blockage and congestion caused by the polyps, or it may signify sinus infection (sinusitis).

Nasal polyps can obstruct sinus drainage pathways, leading to retained secretions and secondary sinus infections, which cause facial pain or pressure.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.