Nasal polyps are painless, soft, fleshy, and noncancerous growths that develop in the lining of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Nasal polyps are the most common tumors of the nasal cavity and are present in 5% of nonallergic people in the United States. Nasal polyps are more common in young and middle-aged adults. Nasal polyps can block the normal airflow and fluid drainage and cause complications. The exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown. Conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, allergies, recurring infection, drug sensitivity, or certain immune disorders can trigger chronic inflammation in the nasal passages which increase the risk of developing nasal polyps.
Symptoms of nasal polyps:
- Runny nose
- Facial pain
- Headache
- Snoring
- Breathing problems
- Itchiness around the eyes
- Swelling around the eyes
- Persistent stuffiness
- Sneezing
- Poor or Reduced sense of smell or taste
Treatment for nasal polyps:
The treatment for nasal polyps can vary depending on what is causing it and treatment options may include nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, steroid tablets, and antibiotics. Surgery is only used if the polyps are very large. Polypectomy is the most common procedure to remove nasal polyps and is performed as a simple outpatient procedure.
Shea Clinic Ear Nose & Throat is world-renowned for its otologic expertise, but we are also a full-service Ear, Nose, and Throat clinic. Whether it’s a minor ear infection, nasal polyps, ringing in your ears, hearing loss, chronic sinus problems or allergies, or a need for facial cosmetic surgery, the Shea Clinic Ear Nose & Throat doctors can help.
Call the Shea Clinic today to set up an appointment with our experts. Call now locally at 901-761-9720 or toll-free at 800-477-SHEA.