Nasal polyps can make it harder to breathe through your nose and may gradually affect your sense of smell.
Although these growths are usually harmless, they don’t normally disappear without treatment. Recognising the signs and getting the right assessment can help you manage the condition and breathe more comfortably.
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, painless swellings that develop in the lining of the nose or sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled spaces within the bones of your face that connect to the nasal passages.
They’re often linked to chronic rhinosinusitis. Rhinosinusitis is inflammation of the lining inside the nose and sinuses. This condition is described as chronic (long-term) when symptoms continue for more than 12 weeks.
Polyps aren’t cancerous. However, a growth or blockage affecting only one side of the nose should always be checked, as it may need further investigation.
Common symptoms of nasal polyps
Small polyps may not cause noticeable problems. However, as they grow, they may restrict airflow or stop mucus from draining normally.
Possible signs of nasal polyps can include:
- A blocked or congested nose
- A runny nose or mucus dripping down the throat, known as postnasal drip
- A reduced or lost sense of smell
- Snoring or breathing through the mouth
- Repeated sinus problems
These effects can feel similar to a cold. The difference is that cold symptoms usually settle, while difficulties caused by polyps tend to continue.
Why do nasal polyps develop?
The exact cause of polyps isn’t always clear. They tend to form when the nasal lining remains inflamed and becomes swollen over time. Adults with asthma or sensitivity to aspirin may have a higher risk.
Nasal polyps are uncommon in children. If they do occur, a doctor may investigate for an underlying cause.
How are nasal polyps diagnosed?
Large nasal polyps can be diagnosed by your GP, but smaller ones might not be visible. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can carry out a more detailed assessment.
Investigations may involve nasal endoscopy, where a slim telescope with a light is gently passed into the nostril.
Your ENT may recommend a CT scan, which uses X-rays to create detailed images, if they need to examine the sinuses more closely or are considering surgery as a treatment option.
Nasal polyps treatment
Polyp treatment aims to control inflammation and improve airflow. Your plan may include:
- Steroid nasal sprays or drops – these reduce swelling and are usually the first treatment. They need to be used regularly and may take several weeks to have their full effect
- Steroid tablets – a short course of steroids may be prescribed when blockage is severe. These medicines aren’t generally used long-term because they can cause side effects
- Saline rinses – a saline rinse is a salt-water wash that can clear mucus and help prescribed treatments reach the nasal lining
- Endoscopic sinus surgery – if medication hasn’t provided enough relief, surgery may be considered. An endoscope is used to remove the polyps and open the sinuses through the nostrils
Surgery can improve breathing, but it doesn’t prevent polyps from coming back. Continuing nasal treatment afterwards may reduce the chance of them returning.
When to get advice for nasal polyps
Speak to a doctor if:
- Nasal blockage lasts for several weeks
- Your sense of smell changes
- Prescribed treatment isn’t helping
- You have repeated nosebleeds or persistent one-sided congestion
Seek urgent medical help if you’re struggling to breathe.
Book an ENT consultation
If ongoing nasal blockage or loss of smell is affecting your daily life, Mr Wale Olarinde can assess the cause and discuss suitable treatment options.
Book a consultation with ENT Sheffield for specialist advice tailored to your symptoms.