Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, painless swellings that arise from the mucous membrane of the nose or sinuses. They often form in clusters and may obstruct airflow when they become large. Small polyps may cause few symptoms, while larger polyps can result in significant nasal blockage, recurrent sinus infections, and reduced sense of smell.

Nasal polyps are associated with long-standing inflammation of the nasal or sinus lining. Factors that increase the risk include:

• Chronic rhinosinusitis

• Allergic rhinitis

• Asthma

• Aspirin sensitivity

• Immune system disorders

• Fungal sinus infections

• Repeated exposure to irritants such as smoke or dust

Environmental conditions such as dry air and dust exposure may contribute to persistent nasal inflammation in some individuals.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent nasal congestion

• Runny nose or postnasal drip

• Reduced or loss of sense of smell

• Facial pressure or discomfort

• Frequent sinus infections

• Mouth breathing or snoring

• Headache or facial fullness

Because symptoms overlap with other nasal conditions, proper evaluation is required for accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis is based on ENT examination and may include:

• Nasal endoscopy to directly visualize polyps

• CT or MRI imaging to assess sinus involvement

• Allergy testing to identify contributing allergic triggers

• Laboratory tests or biopsy in selected cases to rule out other conditions

These assessments help determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Treatment is guided by the size, location, and impact of the polyps on breathing and sinus function.

Medical Management

For small to moderate polyps, treatment may include:

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation

• Short courses of oral corticosteroids when indicated

• Antihistamines for associated allergic symptoms

• Antibiotics if bacterial infection is present

• Biologic therapy in selected cases of severe or recurrent polyps

Medical treatment may reduce polyp size and improve symptoms, potentially avoiding surgery.

Surgical Treatment (Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)

Surgical intervention may be recommended when polyps are large, recurrent, or resistant to medication. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which polyps are removed using a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through the nostrils.

Surgery aims to:

• Restore airflow

• Improve sinus drainage

• Preserve healthy surrounding tissue

Procedures are performed under appropriate anesthesia, and most patients are discharged on the same day.

After treatment, patients may be advised to:

• Use saline nasal rinses

• Continue prescribed nasal sprays

• Avoid irritants such as smoke or dust

• Attend follow-up visits for monitoring

• Manage allergies or sinus conditions to reduce recurrence

Most patients experience gradual improvement in breathing and nasal comfort.

While nasal polyps cannot always be prevented, recurrence risk can be reduced by:

• Treating allergies and sinus infections early

• Maintaining nasal hygiene

• Using humidifiers when needed

• Avoiding environmental irritants

• Following long-term care recommendations from the ENT specialist

Treatment cost varies depending on:

• Diagnostic testing required

• Type of treatment (medical or surgical)

• Complexity of the condition

• Follow-up care needs

Cost details are explained during consultation based on the individual treatment plan.