Comprehensive Guide to Nasal Polyposis: Symptoms and Treatments

A chronic condition characterized by the growth of polyps in the nasal passages and sinuses.
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Ear, Nose, And Throat Health | Nasal Surgery | Chronic Illnesses | Nasal Polyps Treatment | Symptoms Of Nasal Polyposis | Sinus Health
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Nasal Polyposis FAQ


Image credit: nulifehospitals.com

What is a nasal polyp?

Nasal polyps grow in inflamed tissue of the nasal mucosa. The mucosa is a very wet layer that helps protect the inside of your nose and sinuses and humidifies the air you breathe. During an infection or allergy-induced irritation, the nasal mucosa becomes swollen and red, and it may produce fluid that drips out.

Are nasal polyps cancer?

Nasal polyps are painless growths inside the nose or the hollow areas inside the bones of the face, also known as sinuses. Nasal polyps aren't cancer. Small nasal polyps might not cause symptoms. Larger growths or groups of nasal polyps can block the nose. They can lead to breathing problems, not being able to smell and infections.

What causes a polyp in the nose?

A polyp is a round growth (like a small cyst) that can block nasal passages. Although some people can develop polyps with no previous nasal problems, there’s often a trigger for developing polyps. These triggers include: sensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin

What is the histopathology of nasal polyps?

The histopathology of nasal polyps depends mainly on the endotype classification. Polyps in patients with CRSwNP tend to have higher tissue eosinophilia, plasma cells, macrophages, edema, IL-5, and IgE. In contrast, in patients without nasal polyps, the collected specimens do not share this abundance of Th2 inflammatory markers.

What are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are fleshy swellings that grow inside the nose or sinuses. They are usually non-cancerous (benign). The most common symptoms they cause are a stuffy, runny nose. Steroid nasal drops are commonly used to shrink the polyps. Surgical removal of polyps is sometimes needed.

What does a nasal polyp look like?

Nasal polyps are soft fleshy swellings that grow inside your nose. They may be yellowish, grey or pink in colour. They are common.. Nasal polyps can vary greatly in size. There may be only one but sometimes several nasal polyps grow like a small bunch of grapes on a stem. What causes nasal polyps?

How do I know if I have nasal polyps?

If your polyps block your sinuses (the air pockets around your nose) you may also have symptoms of sinusitis. A GP should be able to tell if you have nasal polyps by looking inside your nose. If you have nasal polyps, you'll usually be given steroid nose drops or a spray to shrink the polyps.

Nasal Polyposis References

If you want to know more about Nasal Polyposis, consider exploring links below:

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