Nasal polyps
General HealthNasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses. Small polyps often cause no symptoms; larger ones can block the nose, reduce smell, and cause recurrent sinus infections.
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About Nasal polyps
About this summary: Written by Swasthya Plus for Indian readers, using NHS (UK) as a reference source. For personal guidance, please consult a qualified Health Expert.
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses. Small polyps often cause no symptoms; larger ones can block the nose, reduce smell, and cause recurrent sinus infections.
Symptoms
- Blocked or runny nose
- Reduced or lost sense of smell (and taste)
- Post-nasal drip
- Face pain or pressure
- Snoring or disturbed sleep
- Frequent sinus infections
Causes and risks
Nasal polyps are usually linked to chronic inflammation of the nasal lining. Risk factors include:
- Asthma
- Chronic sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Aspirin sensitivity
- Cystic fibrosis (in children)
Treatment
First-line treatment is usually a steroid nasal spray to shrink polyps and reduce inflammation; a short course of oral steroids may be used for larger polyps. Treating the underlying asthma or allergy matters. Polyps that don't respond to medicines may need surgical removal (usually endoscopic), but they can come back — long-term inflammation control is key.
See a doctor if you have a persistently blocked nose or reduced sense of smell for weeks.
Reference source: NHS (UK)